Merchant verification in an exchange item marketplace network

ABSTRACT

A method includes initiating, by a computing device, an acquisition process with a merchant server to acquire an item using an exchange item. The method further includes determining, by the merchant server and/or a marketplace server, whether the acquisition process requires verification of the merchant server. When the acquisition process requires verification, the method further includes obtaining, by the marketplace server, a verification signature of the merchant server. The method further includes authenticating, by the marketplace server, the verification signature of the merchant server in accordance with use rules associated with the exchange item. When the verification signature is authenticated, the method further includes facilitating, by the marketplace server, exchange of the secure custody of the exchange item data file between the computing device and the merchant server in accordance with the secure custody protocol to finalize the acquisition process.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENTS

The present U.S. Utility Patent Application claims priority pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/398,851, entitled “MERCHANT VERIFICATION IN AN EXCHANGE ITEM MARKETPLACE NETWORK,” filed Sep. 23, 2016, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and made part of the present U.S. Utility Patent Application for all purposes.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

NOT APPLICABLE

INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC

NOT APPLICABLE

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Technical Field of the Invention

This invention relates generally to computer networks and more particularly to an exchange item marketplace network.

Description of Related Art

The use of credit cards, debit cards, and gift cards to pay for goods and services is well known. It is further known to use services such as PayPal™ or Apple Pay™ to expand the use of credit cards and debit cards through computing devices (e.g., computers, tablets, cell phones, etc.). The use of these services is aided by the standardized numbering system and format used by credit card issuers and debit card issuers.

For a credit card and debit card transaction, the credit or debit cardholder presents the credit or debit card to a merchant (e.g., on line or brick & mortar) to pay for a purchase. The merchant uses point of sale (POS) equipment to capture the information of the credit or debit card and to enter the amount of the purchase. This information is sent to an acquirer (e.g., the financial institution of the merchant). The acquirer sends the transaction information via a secure network of a credit card company to the cardholder's issuer (e.g., a financial institution that issued the credit or debit card to the cardholder).

The issuer approves or declines the transaction and sends the response back to the acquirer via the secure network of the credit card company. The acquirer sends the response (e.g., approved or declined) to the merchant to complete the transaction. Money, however, is not exchanged at the time of purchase, but is done during clearing and settlement.

Clearing and settlement begins when the merchant deposits the transaction receipt with the acquirer. The acquirer credits the merchant's account and sends the transaction receipt to the issuer via the secure network. The issuer posts the transaction to the cardholder's account. The cardholder pays the issuer in response to receiving a monthly statement.

The issuance and use of a gift card is significantly different than that of a credit card. FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram regarding the issuance and use of a gift card. A branded company (e.g., a retailer, a chain store, a restaurant, etc.) issues a request to create gift cards to a processor service. The processor service creates the gift cards, which may be issued with specific values or issued as blanks; where the value is specified at the time of purchase.

The processor service provides the gift cards to a distributor who is responsible for distributing the gift cards so that a consumer may purchase them. For example, the distributor may provide gift cards to merchants so they may sell the gift cards. At some point, a consumer purchases a gift card (e.g., a sporting goods company gift card for $50.00). The payment for the gift card is processed such that the distributor, processing service, and branded company each are paid their respective shares.

If the gift card is used, a merchant (e.g., a franchise owner of the branded company) captures information of the gift card via point of sale (POS) equipment. The information of the gift card is processed to determine if it is a valid gift card and to determine the balance remaining on the gift card. If the card is valid, the use of the gift card is authorized up to the balance remaining on the gift card. Once the use is complete, the balance is updated, processing fees are paid, and the branded company is debited.

Another difference between credit cards and gift cards is that gift cards do not have a standardized numbering system or format. As such, gift cards can have one of thousands of different numbering systems and formats, which have to be recognizable by the POS equipment.

Yet another different between credit cards and gift cards is when money is processed. For credit cards, money is not processed until a purchase occurs, while gift cards are purchased and then subsequently used. As such, money is processed at the time of purchase of the gift card and again if the gift card is used.

A still further difference between credit cards and purchased gift cards is that, if a credit card goes unused, no money is spent. In contrast, if a purchased gift card goes unused, money has been spent to acquire the card, but no goods or services are acquired. It is estimated that billions of dollars worth of purchased gift cards go unused annually. While this may be a favorable scenario for the branded company, it is not a favorable scenario for consumers.

Raise Marketplace Inc. introduced a system that enables gift cardholders to sell their unused or unwanted gift cards. This system allows a gift card seller to post a gift card for sale in a virtual gift card marketplace. Buyers can access the virtual gift card marketplace and purchase gift cards that are offered for sale. When a gift card is purchased, the system processes the purchase to debit the buyer, credit the seller, and provide the gift card to the buyer.

The system may provide the physical gift card to the buyer, which requires obtaining the physical gift card from the seller and delivering it to the buyer. Alternatively, the system provides the information of the gift card to the user in a voucher format (e.g., a document that the buyer can print off that includes the relevant information of the gift card).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of user device of exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a marketplace server of exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7A is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7B is a schematic block diagram of a transactions blockchain in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7C is another schematic block diagram of a transactions blockchain in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7D is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for generating a transactions blockchain in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7E is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method for generating a transactions blockchain in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8A is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for utilizing an exchange item in an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8B is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for utilizing rules in an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8D is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8E is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8F is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8G is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8H is a diagram of an exchange item database in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8J is another schematic block diagram of a transactions blockchain in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8K is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for modifying an exchange item in an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8L is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8M is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for securely modifying an exchange item in an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8N is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8P is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for securely processing an exchange item in an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 9A-B are schematic block diagrams of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 9C is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for verifying a merchant in an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 10A is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 10B is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for redeeming an exchange item in an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 11A is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 11B is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for promoting utilization of exchange items in an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 12A is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 12B is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for verifying redemption of an exchange item in an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 13A is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention; and

FIG. 13B is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for authorizing exchange item redemption in an exchange item marketplace network in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network 10 that includes user devices 12 of individual sellers, user devices 14 of bulk sellers, user devices 16 of individual buyers, one or more marketplace servers 18 (an example embodiment is shown in FIG. 3), one or more databases 20, one or more networks 24, one or more brand server(s) 26, one or more processor servers 28, one or more distributor servers 30, point of sale (POS) equipment 32, and one or more retailer servers 34. Hereafter, the exchange item marketplace network 10 may be interchangeably referred to as a marketplace network, a system, a communication system, a data communication system, and a communication network. The one or more marketplace servers 18 process, and the one or more databases 20 store a virtual marketplace of exchange items 22. Hereafter, the virtual marketplace of exchange items 22 may be interchangeably referred to as a virtual marketplace, a marketplace, and exchange items.

Each of the user devices 12, 14, and 16 is a computing device that includes a computing core. In general, a computing device is any electronic device that can communicate data, process data, and/or store data. A further generality of a computing device is that it includes a central processing unit (CPU), a memory system, user input/output interfaces, peripheral device interfaces, and an interconnecting bus structure.

As specific examples, each of the user devices 12-16 may be a portable computing device and/or a fixed computing device. A portable computing device may be a social networking device, a gaming device, a cell phone, a smart phone, a personal digital assistant, a digital music player, a digital video player, a laptop computer, a handheld computer, a tablet, a video game controller, and/or any other portable device that includes a computing core. A fixed computing device may be a personal computer (PC), a computer server, a cable set-top box, a satellite receiver, a television set, a printer, a fax machine, home entertainment equipment, a video game console, and/or any type of home or office computing equipment that includes a computing core. An embodiment of a computing device 12-16 is further described below with reference to FIG. 2.

The exchange item marketplace network 10 supports the selling and purchasing of exchange items. An exchange item is a closed loop financial instrument and/or other digital goods. For example, a closed loop financial instrument is a gift card, a voucher, a store credit, and/or other brand company (or merchant) sponsored form of credit for a specific use (e.g., in a specific store, in a specific chain of stores, for a particular type of goods, etc.). A closed loop financial instrument is distinguished from an open loop financial instrument, such as a credit card.

A digital good is digital item that can legally be sold or resold by an individual. For example, the digital item may be an original digital book, an original digital photograph, an original video clip, a purchased video game, a purchased software application, a purchase video, a purchased music file, a purchased digital book, a purchased audio book, etc.

In support of selling an exchange item, the marketplace server 18 communicates with a user device of a seller (e.g., individual or bulk) to verify the user device (and the seller) and to ascertain information regarding the exchange item being offered for sale. For example, the marketplace server 18 verifies user information (e.g., the seller's name, account, personal identification number (PIN), a user identification number (ID), payment account information (e.g., a credit card number, checking or savings account information), seller's mailing address, etc.) and device information (e.g., an IP address, device serial number, a marketplace application ID, etc.) of the seller's computing device. Verification of the seller and corresponding computing device is discussed in greater detail with reference to FIG. 6.

Upon receiving the information regarding the exchange item, which includes a brand name (e.g., a coffee franchise, a sporting good franchise, an electronics store, etc.), a serial number, a selling price, a remaining balance, restrictions of use, a bar code, and/or other pertinent information, the marketplace server 18 verifies it. When the seller and the information regarding the exchange item are verified, the marketplace server 18 posts it in the virtual marketplace of exchange items 22, which is stored in database 20.

The marketplace server 18 posts the exchange item in the virtual marketplace 22 by creating a digital representation of the exchange item. To do this, the server creates a digital image of the exchange item, determines the brand of the exchange item, and the information regarding the exchange item (e.g., a brief description, brand, selling price, balance, serial number, restrictions (if any), expiration date (if any), and/or any other pertinent information). In accordance with an organization protocol of the virtual marketplace, the digital representation of the exchange item is added. For instance, the organization protocol groups exchange items by types (e.g., restaurants, sporting goods, coffee shops, automotive goods, etc.), by brands (e.g., a sporting goods chain, a coffee shop chain, etc.), by sales price, by balance of the exchange item, by a savings value (e.g., a difference between the balance and the sales price), by expiration date, by date offered for sale, by special promotions, by seller, by restrictions, by a brief description (e.g., title of a video for resale), and/or any other organization scheme that lends itself to searching for particular items.

As such, for a particular exchange item offered for sale, its digital representation is added to the database 20 and will be displayed within a grouping per the organization protocol when a potential buyer or other user of the system 10 selects the grouping. In one example, if the exchange item is a gift card, a digital image of the gift card is displayed along with at least some of the related information (e.g., sales price, balance, etc.). If the gift card includes a logo of the branded company offering the gift card, the logo is often displayed in accordance with requirements of the branded company.

A potential buyer of an exchange item offered for sale accesses the system 10 using its user device 16. For example, the user device 16 logs into the system 10. If the user device 16 is associated with a buyer that does not have an account with the system 10, the buyer creates one through the user device 16 with the system. For buyers with an account, the marketplace server 18 verifies the buyer user device 16 before allowing it access to the virtual marketplace 22. The buyer verification process is discussed in greater detail with reference to FIG. 4.

Once the buyer is verified, the buyer computing device 16 is allowed access the virtual marketplace 22. The buyer computing device 16 uses searching criteria that are in accordance with the organization protocol to search the virtual marketplace 22 for exchange items of interest. The marketplace server 18 provides video-graphics data to the buyer computing device 16 in accordance with the searching. When the buyer computing device 16 finds exchange items of interest, it displays the video-graphics of the corresponding exchange items (e.g., a grouping of gift cards).

The buyer computing device 16 receives an input corresponding to a selection of one of the exchange items of interest for purchase. The buyer computing device 16 sends the selected exchange item to the marketplace server 18 for processing.

The marketplace server 18 processes the selected exchange item via a multiple step process. One step includes verifying that the buyer is authorized to purchase the exchange item (e.g., has the financial resources, is not limited by buying restrictions (e.g., dollar amount, quantity, type, etc.), is a legitimate buyer, etc.). Another step includes verifying integrity of the information of the selected exchange item (e.g., balance remaining is accurate, the offer to sell the exchange item has not been withdrawn, the exchange item is not currently being processed for sale to another buyer, the exchange item is not expired, the exchange item has not been voided by the branded company, etc.).

When the buyer is authorized and the information regarding the selected exchange item has been verified, another step includes removing the exchange item from the virtual marketplace 22. Another step includes processing payment for the selected exchange item. The multiple step buying process is further described with reference to FIG. 4.

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of computing device 12-16 of exchange item marketplace network 10. The computing device 12-16 includes a computing core 52, one or more input devices 54 (e.g., keypad, keyboard, touchscreen, voice to text, etc.), one or more audio output devices 56 (e.g., speaker(s), headphone jack, etc.), one or more visual output devices 58 (e.g., video graphics display, touchscreen, etc.), one or more universal serial bus (USB) devices, one or more networking devices (e.g., a wireless local area network (WLAN) device 84, a wired LAN device 86, a wireless wide area network (WWAN) device 88 (e.g., a cellular telephone transceiver, a wireless data network transceiver, etc.), and/or a wired WAN device 90), one or more memory devices (e.g., a flash memory device 92, one or more hard drives 94, one or more solid state (SS) memory devices 96, and/or cloud memory 98), and one or more peripheral devices.

The computing core 52 includes a video graphics processing unit 60, one or more processing modules 62, a memory controller 64, main memory 66 (e.g., RAM), one or more input/output (I/O) device interface module 68, an input/output (I/O) interface 70, an input/output (I/O) controller 72, a peripheral interface 74, one or more USB interface modules 76, one or more network interface modules 78, one or more memory interface modules 80, and/or one or more peripheral device interface modules 82. Each of the interface modules 68, 76, 78, 80, and 82 includes a combination of hardware (e.g., connectors, wiring, etc.) and operational instructions stored on memory (e.g., driver software) that is executed by the processing module 62 and/or a processing circuit within the interface module. Each of the interface modules couples to one or more components of the computing device 12-16. For example, one of the JO device interface modules 68 couples to an audio output device 56. As another example, one of the memory interface modules 80 couples to flash memory 92 and another one of the memory interface modules 80 couples to cloud memory 98 (e.g., an on-line storage system and/or on-line backup system).

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a marketplace server 18 of exchange item marketplace network 10. The server 18 includes a computing core 122, one or more input devices 54 (e.g., keypad, keyboard, touchscreen, voice to text, etc.), one or more audio output devices 56 (e.g., speaker(s), headphone jack, etc.), one or more visual output devices 58 (e.g., video graphics display, touchscreen, etc.), one or more networking devices (e.g., a wireless local area network (WLAN) device 84, a wired LAN device 86, a wireless wide area network (WWAN) device 88 (e.g., a cellular telephone transceiver, a wireless data network transceiver, etc.), and/or a wired WAN device 90), one or more memory devices (e.g., a flash memory device 92, one or more hard drives 94, one or more solid state (SS) memory devices 96, and/or cloud memory 98), and one or more peripheral devices. Note that the server 18 may include more or less devices than shown in this example embodiment of a server.

The computing core 122 includes a video graphics processing unit 60, a plurality of processing modules 62, a memory controller 64, a plurality of main memories 66 (e.g., RAM), one or more input/output (I/O) device interface module 68, an input/output (I/O) interface 70, an input/output (I/O) controller 72, a peripheral interface 74, one or more network interface modules 78, and/or one or more memory interface module 80.

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item (EI) marketplace (MP) network that includes the seller's computing device 12, the buyer's computing device 16, a seller's financial server 190, a service provider's financial server 192, a buyer's financial server 194, the marketplace (MP) server(s) 18, and the database 20, which includes the virtual marketplace of exchange items 22. Each of the seller's computing device 12 and buyer's computing device 16 includes a marketplace interface 142, which includes a web browser 196 and a mobile application 198.

The MP server 18 performs function blocks that includes a seller verification 200, a deny 202, an exchange item verification 204, an add exchange item to marketplace 206, a buyer verification 208, a deny 210, an exchange item purchase verification 212, an exchange item payment processing 214, a remove exchange item from marketplace 216, an add exchange item to buyer's wallet 218, an exchange item use 220, and an exchange item balance update 222.

As an example of operation, the mobile application 198 of the seller's computing device 12 sends a request to sell an exchange item to the marketplace (MP) server(s) 18. The server 18 performs the seller verification 200 functional block to determine whether the seller and/or the seller's computing device 12 are a valid seller (e.g., device and/or seller are valid). When invalid, the server(s) 18 performs the deny 202 functional block to communicate a denial of the request to sell the exchange item to the seller's computing device 12.

When the seller is verified, the server performs the exchange item verification 204 functional block to determine whether the exchange item is valid (e.g., is a valid exchange item, perform a balance check with an associated entity, i.e., a retailer, etc.). When invalid, the server(s) perform the deny 202 functional block. When the exchange item is valid, the server(s) 18 perform the add exchange item to marketplace 206 functional block to add a digital representation of the exchange item to the virtual marketplace of exchange items 22 (e.g., creates a new entry for inventory within the virtual marketplace of exchange items 22).

When a buyer desires to purchase an exchange item, the mobile application 198 of the buyer's computing device 16 sends a request to buy a selected exchange item to the MP server(s) 18. The server(s) 18 perform the buyer verification 208 functional block to determine whether the buyer is valid (e.g., the user and/or buyer computing device are valid). When invalid, the server(s) 18 perform the deny 210 functional block to issue a denial of the purchase request to the buyer's computing device 16.

When the buyer is validated, the server(s) 18 perform the exchange item purchase verification 212 functional block to verify that the buyer, via the buyer's computing device, has sufficient means (e.g., money, credit, valid credit card, valid debit card, etc.) to pay for the selected exchange item. For example, the exchange item purchase verification 212 functional block enables the server 18 to receive buyer information from the buyer's financial server 194 verifying payment and/or verifying an ability to pay. When unable to purchase the selected exchange item, the server 18 performs the deny 210 functional block.

When the buyer is able to purchase the selected exchange item, the server 18 performs the exchange item payment processing 214 functional block to process payment for the selected exchange item. For example, the server 18 collects payment from the buyer's e-wallet, the buyer's computing device 16, or the buyer's financial server 194, issues a payment to the seller's e-wallet, to the seller's computing device, or to the seller's financial server 190, and issues a commission payment to the service provider's financial server 192.

After processing payment or concurrent with the processing of the payment, the server 18 performs the remove exchange item from marketplace 216 functional block to remove the selected exchange item from the virtual marketplace of exchange items 22. For example, the server 18 deletes an entry associated with the selected exchange item from the database 20.

The server 18 performs the add exchange item to the buyer's wallet 218 functional block to facilitate adding the exchange item to a buyer's e-wallet. For example, the server 18 updates a representation of the buyer's wallet within the database 20 to include a digital representation of the purchased exchange item and issues a message to the mobile application 198 to store a local copy of the digital representation within the buyer's computing device 16.

When the buyer desires to purchase something using an exchange item, the mobile application 198 communicates a utilization message to the server 18. The server 18 evokes the exchange item use 220 functional block to receive the utilization message and to facilitate communication with other servers for verification and transaction execution. For example, the server 18 forwards the utilization message to a retailer server associated with the exchange item to initiate execution of the transaction. Having successfully used the exchange item, the server 18, via the exchange item balance update 222 functional block, updates the buyer's wallet to indicate that the exchange item has been utilized and to update the balance remaining on the exchange item, when appropriate.

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network 10A that includes a plurality of sellers 702, a plurality of buyers 704, and an on-line exchange item marketplace 700. Hereafter, the exchange item marketplace network 10A may be interchangeably referred to as a system, a communication system, and a communication network. The sellers 702 include individual sellers 706, bulk resellers 708, and retailers 710. The buyers 704 include individual buyers 712 and other types of buyers 714 (e.g., bulk buyers, resale buyers, etc.).

Each seller 702 and each buyer 704 corresponds to a computing device 12-16 that includes a marketplace interface module 716 that enables the computing device access to the marketplace 700 and to function therein. The marketplace interface module 716 includes a browser application 722, a mobile device application 720, and/or any type of application that enables access to the marketplace 700. The computing core 52 of the user device executes one or more of these applications. For instance, each of the applications includes operational instructions that are stored in memory (e.g., main memory, flash memory, SS memory, HD memory, and/or cloud memory) and executed by the processing module 62 of the computing core 52.

Alternatively, the marketplace interface module 716 includes a processing circuit and memory, wherein the memory stores and the processing circuit executes the operational instructions of the application. As yet another alternative, the processing circuit of the marketplace interface module 716 and the processing module 62 of the computing core 52 co-process the operational instructions of one or more of the applications. Interface 718 functions in a similar manner to provide bulk resellers 708 and/or retailers 710 access and function within the marketplace 700.

One or more marketplace servers 18 supports the on-line exchange item (EI) marketplace 700 by performing the functions of the corresponding functional blocks. The functional blocks include seller software tools 738, individual seller fraud detection 724, individual sale processing 726, bulk seller verification processing 730, bulk sale processing 732, retailer verification processing 734, retailer sale processing 736, displaying exchange items for sale 728 in the marketplace 700, payment processing 748, MP user e-wallet 750, buyer fraud detection 740, purchase processing 742, consumer profiles 744, and market customization 746. A functional block includes one or more of a standalone processing module that executes operational instructions to perform the corresponding functions of the block, a software algorithm executed by the computer core of the server to perform the corresponding functions of the block, and/or a combination thereof.

The server(s) 18 perform the marketplace user e-wallet functional block 750 to create and maintain an e-wallet for a user of the marketplace 700. The e-wallet is essentially a file for an individual user (e.g., a person, a legal entity, etc.) that stores information regarding exchange items bought, sold, and/or used by the user. For example, the e-wallet stores a digital representation of each purchased exchange item that has a value greater than zero. For example, a digital representation of a gift card is displayed in an asset section of the e-wallet while the gift card has a balance above zero and the gift card has not expired. When the balance is zero or the gift card expires, the digital representation is removed and the information regarding the gift card is stored in an archive section of the e-wallet.

The e-wallet is further capable of storing and tracking marketplace credit. For example, a user may purchase marketplace credit that is subsequently used to purchase an exchange item. In addition, a seller of an exchange item may be paid in marketplace credit that the seller may use to purchase an exchange item or cash out.

The e-wallet further functions to archive data regarding previous exchange item purchases and/or previous exchange item sales. The amount of data stored for each exchange item purchase or sale may be user defined or set based on a system default setting. For example, the data for a purchase includes one or more of a purchase price, the exchange item ID, a serial number, a brand name, a purchase date, the value of the exchange item, restrictions of the exchange item, and an expiration date. The data for a purchased exchange item may further include use information (e.g., when the exchanged item was used, the amount of value used, the date of use, the place of use, etc.) and/or remaining value information.

As another example, the data for a sale includes one or more of an asking selling price, a sold price, the exchange item ID, a serial number, a brand name, an offer for sale time stamp, a sold time stamp, the value of the exchange item, restrictions of the exchange item, and an expiration date. The data for a sold exchange item may further include price reduction information (e.g., the amount of the change, a change time stamp, etc.) and/or information regarding a withdrawal of an offer for sale.

The server(s) 18 perform the seller software tools functional block 738 to assist a seller (e.g., individual, bulk, or retailer) in setting a price for an exchange item. For example, the server(s) 18 record data regarding exchange items offered for sale, data regarding purchases of exchange items, and data regarding exchange items for which the offer for sale was withdrawn. From this data, the server(s) 18 determines predictive sales information. For example, the server(s) 18 determines for a particular type of exchange item (e.g., a gift card for a particular franchise) a correlation between the value of the exchange item and duration in the marketplace (e.g., a $250 gift card has an average duration of 1 day, a $100 gift card has an average duration of 12 hours, a $50 gift card has an average duration of 5 hours, etc.).

As another example of predictive sales information, the server(s) 18 determine a correlation between sales price and duration in the marketplace (e.g., a 5% discount has an average duration of 12.5 hours, a 3% discount has an average of 1 day, and a 10% discount has an average duration of 1.5 hours). As yet another example, the server(s) 18 determine a periodic sales volume for a particular exchange item (e.g., how many sold in an hour, six hours, a day, etc.). As yet another example, the server(s) 18 determine a current quantity of the particular exchange items for sale (e.g., how many are currently being offered for sale, at what sales price, the current average duration in the marketplace, etc.). The server(s) 18 may further analyze any type of data maintained by the system 10A to assist in the creation of predictive sales information.

In addition to creating the predictive sales information, the server(s) 18 generate a seller's profile, which includes information regarding the sales tendencies and/or preferences of a particular seller. For example, the seller's profile includes information regarding one or more of the types of exchange items offered for sale, information regarding if and when exchange item offers for sale are withdrawn, initial asking prices for exchange items offered for sale, actual sales price information and corresponding discounted percentage, frequency for which initial asking price is adjusted, average duration of exchange items in the marketplace, standard deviation of duration of exchange items in the marketplace, etc.

From the predictive sales information and the seller's profile, the server(s) 18 provide a suggested sales price for a particular exchange item. For example, the seller profile indicates that the seller has a tendency to offer a particular exchange item with a minimal discount and prefers that the exchange item remain in the marketplace for less than 6 hours. Further, the predictive sales information for the particular exchange item indicates that there is currently above normal quantity of the exchange item for sale, the current asking price has a greater discount than the seller's preference, and the current average duration in the marketplace is 7 hours, the server(s) 18 provides one or more recommendations and corresponding predictive outcomes (e.g., an initial asking price below the seller's profile to sell the exchange item within 6 hours, an initial asking price corresponding to the seller's profile to sell the exchange item within 11 hours, etc.). The server(s) 18 may further provide the predictive sales information to the seller's computing device.

The server(s) 18 perform the individual seller fraud detection functional block 724 to automate detection of a fraudulent seller and/or a fraudulent exchange item. This includes the seller verification and the exchange item verification as discussed in FIG. 4. The fraud detection further includes an automated process for resolving a potential fraud issue. For example, when a verification of seller falls between verified and not verified, the server(s) 18 evoke a process to render a definitive verification decision. As another example, when the verification of an exchange item falls between verified and not verified, the server(s) 18 evoke a process to render a definitive verification decision.

To extend the use of the marketplace to retailers or branded companies (i.e., the entity that initiates a gift card and ultimately accepts the gift card as payment), the server(s) 18 perform the retailer verification processing functional block 734 and the retailer sale processing functional block 736. The retailer verification processing functional block 734 includes one or more of setting up an account for a retailer to sell exchange items via the marketplace, verifying the retailer at least at the setup of the account and potentially for each transaction conducted via the marketplace, verifying the exchange items being offered for sale, and/or other verification mechanisms. As an example, a secure portal is established between the retailer seller and the marketplace server(s) 18 such that any communications via the secure portal is at least initially deemed a valid communication.

The retailer sale processing functional block 736 includes one or more of creating digital representations of the exchange items offered for sale, determining selling parameters and posting the digital representations and the parameters in the marketplace. The selling parameters include one or more of sales price, listing duration before changing price, restrictions, withdraw procedures, etc.

The server(s) 18 perform the buyer fraud detection functional block 740 to automate detection of a fraudulent buyer and/or fraudulent financial information used for purchasing. This includes the buyer verification and the purchase verification as discussed in FIG. 4. The fraud detection further includes an automated process for resolving a potential fraud issue. For example, when a verification of buyer falls between verified and not verified, the server(s) 18 evoke a process to render a definitive verification decision. As another example, when the verification of financial information falls between verified and not verified, the server(s) 18 evoke a process to render a definitive verification decision.

The server(s) 18 perform the payment processing functional block 748 to process payment through the user e-wallets of the seller and of the buyer. For instance, payment by the buyer is made from the buyer's e-wallet by debiting a credit card, a checking account, a savings account, a currency balance (e.g., money on account for purchases), and/or marketplace credit. Payment to the seller is made by crediting the seller's e-wallet with currency, marketplace credit, and/or some form of financial receipt. The mechanics of the payment process include the functionality described in FIG. 4.

The server(s) 18 perform the consumer profiles functional block 744 for a buyer. For the buyer, its consumer profile includes data regarding exchange item purchases of the buyer. The data includes one or more of the exchange items purchased, frequency of purchases, average purchase price, average value of purchased like exchange items (e.g., coffee shop gift cards), preferred discounts, etc. Note that this may be included in the buyer's e-wallet or maintained as a separate file.

The server(s) 18 perform the market customization functional block 746 to customize marketing of exchange items being offered for sale to particular buyers based on their buyer profiles. The market customization functional block 746 further includes determining a type and a quantity of exchange items a retailer should offer for sale and directing marketing efforts to a particular segment of buyers. In this manner, the system 10A efficiently and effectively couples exchange items for sale to buyers who typically buy such exchange items.

The server(s) 18 perform the individual sales processing function block 726, the bulk seller verification processing functional block 730, the bulk sale processing functional block 732, and the purchase processing functional block 742 as described with reference to one or more of FIGS. 1 and 4. The server(s) 18 also perform the displaying exchange items for sale functional block 728 to add/remove/edit an exchange item in the marketplace 700 as described with reference to one or more of FIGS. 1 and 4.

FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network that includes the network 24 of FIG. 1, an exchange item (EI) issuing server 920, and EI trusted module 922, a merchant server 924, the marketplace database 20 of FIG. 1, the marketplace server 18 and FIG. 1, an EI buyer computing device 926, and an initial owner computing device 928. The EI issuing server 920 may be implemented utilizing one or more of the brand server(s) 26 of FIG. 1, the processor server 28 of FIG. 1, and the distributor server 30 FIG. 1. The EI trusted module 922 may be implemented within one or more of the EI issuing server 920, the merchant server 924, and the marketplace server 18. The merchant server 924 may be implemented utilizing one or more of the retail server 34 of FIG. 1 and the point-of-sale equipment 32 of FIG. 1. The EI buyer computing device 926 may be implemented utilizing the buyer's computing device 16 of FIG. 4. The initial owner computing device 928 may be implemented utilizing the seller's computing device 12 of FIG. 4.

The marketplace database 20 includes a variety of databases, such as an agreement database 930, a user database 932, and an exchange item database 934. Each of the databases will be discussed in greater detail with reference to following figures. The marketplace server 18 includes a variety of processing capability, which may be implemented as a plurality of processing modules. In an embodiment, the marketplace server 18 includes a set of processing 936, a sale processing 938, a use processing 940, and a rule processing 942. Each of the processing modules will be discussed in greater detail with reference to following figures.

The EI buyer computing device 926 includes a digital wallet 944 and the initial owner computing device 928 includes another digital wallet 946. Each of the digital wallets 944-946 is utilized to store a variety of information associated with one or more exchange items, such as balance information, pricing information, history of sale, brand affiliation, rules, conditions, use options, owner information, and security information to ensure trust of the content of the digital wallet.

FIG. 7A is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network that includes an EI distributor 800, the seller's computing device 12, the MP server(s) 18, the database 20, the buyer's computing device 16, and a retailer computing device 802. Alternatively, the MP server may include the database 20, where the virtual marketplace of exchange items 22 is stored as one or more transaction blockchains of a secure custody protocol. The EI distributor 800 may be implemented utilizing one or more of the distributor servers 30 of FIG. 1, the brand server(s) 26 of FIG. 1, the MP server 18, and a merchant server (e.g., any entity acting on behalf of a brand in a distributor role). The retailer computing device 802 may be implemented utilizing one or more of the point-of-sale (POS) equipment 32 of FIG. 1, a merchant server, and the retail servers 34 of FIG. 1. The seller's computing device 12 includes the marketplace interface 142. The buyer's computing device 16 includes the marketplace interface 142 and the flash memory 92 of FIG. 2. The marketplace interface 142 includes the mobile app 198 of FIG. 4. The exchange item marketplace network functions to generate a transactions blockchain while facilitating a plurality of exchange item transactions. For example, a transactions blockchain is maintained for each exchange item. As another example, the transactions blockchain is maintained for a plurality of exchange items. As yet another example, a single transactions blockchain is maintained for all the exchange items for the entire virtual marketplace of exchange items 22. The transactions blockchain includes a block associated with each transaction of the plurality of exchange item transactions. Each block includes a header section and a transaction section. A structure of the transactions blockchain is discussed in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 7B-C.

In an example of operation of the generating of the transactions blockchain, the EI distributor 800 generates a block 0 of the transactions blockchain to establish exchange item (EI) information when determining to offer an exchange item for sale. The determining may be based on one or more of receiving a purchase request from the seller's computing device 12, receiving a bulk EI creation request, receiving the EI information from one or more of a branded company server and a processor service, and interpreting a schedule. For example, the EI distributor 800 determines to establish the EI information when receiving, via the processor service, EI information for a plurality of exchange items from the branded company server. As another example, the EI distributor 800 determines to establish the EI information when receiving, via a retail point-of-sale device, a purchase request for the EI from the seller's computing device 12.

Having determined to offer the EI for sale, the EI distributor 800 obtains the EI information. The obtaining includes receiving the EI information from the processor service and generating the EI information. The generating the EI information includes obtaining one or more of available balance, serial number, personal identification number (PIN), brand, EI type, expiration date, pricing approach, purchase restrictions, a hash of one or more of the elements of the EI information (e.g., a secure hash of the EI type using a private key of a private/public key pair of the brand server(s) 26), and the public key of the private/public key pair of the brand server(s) 26. Having obtained the EI information, the EI distributor 800 generates the block 0 to include the EI information.

The generating of the block 0 includes populating the block zero with a representation of the EI information and establishing trust for the block 0 utilizing a trust approach. The trust approach includes at least one of a digital signature approach utilizing a private key of a private/public key pair of the EI distributor 800 and encrypting the EI information utilizing the private key of the private/public key pair of the EI distributor 800 to produce the representation of the EI information. For example, the EI distributor 800 encrypts the EI information and the public key of the EI distributor 800 utilizing the private key of the EI distributor 800 to produce the transaction section of the block 0 when utilizing the encryption trust approach. As another example, the EI distributor 800 utilizes the private key of the EI distributor 800 to generate a digital signature over the EI information and the public key of the EI distributor 800 to produce the transaction section of the block 0.

When receiving the EI purchase request from the seller's computing device 12, the EI distributor 800 generates a block 1 of the EI transactions chain to indicate that the seller's computing device 12 is purchasing the EI from the EI distributor 800, where the block 1 is chained to the block 0 in accordance with a trusted chaining approach, and where the block 1 is generated utilizing the trust approach (e.g., as utilized when generating the block 0). The trusted chaining approach is discussed in greater detail with reference to FIG. 7C.

The generating of the block 1 includes generating seller to distributor payment information 1 (e.g., purchase price of this transaction, a timestamp of this transaction, purchaser identifier, and the transaction portion of the previous block), and establishing trust for the block 1 utilizing the trust approach. For example, the EI distributor 800 obtains a public key of a private/public key pair of the seller's computing device 12, encrypts the seller to distributor payment information 1 and the public key of the seller's computing device 12 utilizing the private key of the EI distributor 800 to produce the transaction portion of the block 1 when utilizing the encryption trust approach. As another example, the EI distributor 800 utilizes the private key of the EI distributor 800 to generate a digital signature over the seller to distributor payment information 1 and the public key of the seller's computing device 12 to produce the transaction section of the block 1.

Having generated the block 1 chained to the block 0, the EI distributor 800 issues secure EI information 804 to the seller's computing device 12. The issuing includes generating the secure EI information 804 to include the EI transactions chain (e.g., blocks 0-1) and sending the secure EI information 804 to the seller's computing device 12.

When determining to offer the EI for sale via the virtual marketplace of exchange items 22, the seller's computing device 12 issues secure EI information 806 to the MP servers 18, where the secure EI information 806 includes one or more of the secure EI information 804 and a request to sell the EI via the virtual marketplace of exchange items 22. Having received the secure EI information 806, MP servers 18 communicates pricing information 808 with the seller's computing device 12, where the pricing information 808 includes one or more of a desired price, a desired price range, a recommended price range, a recommended price, and a confirmed price.

Having communicated the confirmed price, the seller's computing device 12 and the MP servers 18 communicates secure sale information 810. For example, the MP servers 18 updates inventory information 809 (e.g., brand, balance, price, expiration date, volume, pricing rules by brand, etc.) to provide a representation of the EI for storage in the database 20 based on the transaction portion of the block 1, the MP servers 18 provides a public key of a private/public key pair of the MP servers 18 to the seller's computing device 12, and the seller's computing device 12 generates a block 2 of the EI transactions chain to indicate that the MP servers 18 is representing the EI for purchase by a buyer's computing device 16, where the block 2 is chained to the block 1 in accordance with the trusted chaining approach, and where the block 2 is generated utilizing the trust approach (e.g., as utilized when generating the block 1).

The generating of the block 2 includes generating a marketplace to seller representation and/or payment information 2 (e.g., desired price, a timestamp of this transaction, purchaser identifier, and the transaction portion of the previous block), and establishing trust for the block 2 utilizing the trust approach. For example, the seller's computing device 12 obtains the public key of a private/public key pair of the MP servers 18, encrypts the seller representation and/or payment information 2 and the public key of the MP servers 18 utilizing the private key of the seller's computing device 12 to produce the transaction section of the block 2 when utilizing the encryption trust approach. As another example, the seller's computing device 12 utilizes the private key of the seller's computer device 12 to generate a digital signature over the seller representation and/or payment information 2 and the public key of the MP servers 18 to produce the transaction portion of the block 2.

Having generated the block 2 chained to the block 1, the seller's computing device 12 issues the secure sale information 810 to the MP servers 18. The issuing includes generating the secure sale information 810 to include the EI transactions chain (e.g., blocks 0-2) and sending the secure sale information 810 to the MP servers 18.

When determining to purchase the EI for sale via the virtual marketplace of exchange items 22, the buyer's computing device 16 issues an EI purchase request 812 to the MP servers 18, where the EI purchase request 812 includes a request to purchase the EI (e.g., buyer's computing device 16 identifier, public key of a private/public key pair of the buyer's computing device 16, a purchase price, etc.). Having received the EI purchase request 812, the MP servers 18 communicate secure buyer wallet information 814 with the buyer's computing device 16. For example, the buyer's computing device 16 sends payment instructions to the MP servers 18 (e.g., purchase price, payment account information), the MP servers 18 generates a block 3 of the EI transactions chain to indicate that the buyer's computing device 16 is purchasing the EI for the purchase price amount, where the block 3 is chained to the block 2 in accordance with the trusted chaining approach, and where the block 3 is generated utilizing the trust approach (e.g., as utilized when generating the block 2).

The generating of the block 3 includes generating buyer to marketplace payment information 3 (e.g., a confirmed purchase price, payment instructions, a timestamp of this transaction, purchaser identifier, and the transaction portion of the previous block), and establishing trust for the block 3 utilizing the trust approach. For example, the MP servers 18 obtains the public key of the private/public key pair of the buyer's computing device 16, encrypts the buyer to marketplace payment information 3 and the public key of the buyer's computing device 16 utilizing the private key of the MP servers 18 to produce the transaction section of the block 3 when utilizing the encryption trust approach. As another example, the MP servers 18 utilizes the private key of the MP servers 18 to generate a digital signature over the buyer to marketplace payment information 3 and the public key of the buyer's computing device 16 to produce the transaction section of the block 3.

Having generated the block 3 chained to the block 2, the MP servers 18 issues secure buyer wallet information 814 to the buyers computing device 16. The issuing includes generating the secure buyer wallet information 814 to include the EI transactions chain (e.g., blocks 0-3) and sending the secure buyer wallet information 814 to buyer's computing device 16, where the mobile app 198 facilitates storage of the transactions chain as a secure EI record 822 in the flash memory 92.

When the buyer's computing device 16 determines to utilize the EI for payment of a transaction with the retailer computing device 802, the buyer's computing device 16 sends a transaction request 816 to the retailer computing device 802, where the transaction request 816 includes one or more of a retail transaction identifier of the transaction with the retailer computing device 802, and payment instructions that identifies the EI.

Having received the transaction request 816, the retailer computing device 802 and the buyer's computing device 16 communicate secure balance verification 818. The communicating of the secure balance verification information 818 includes the buyer's computing device 16 sending one or more of the secure EI record 822 (e.g., blocks 0-3) to the retailer computing device 802 and the public key of the private/public key pair of the MP servers 18.

Having received the secure EI record 822, the retailer computing device 802 verifies that a sufficient balance level is associated with the secure EI record 822 to facilitate completion of the transaction request 816. For example, the retailer computing device 802 decrypts the secure transaction section of the secure EI record 822 utilizing the public key of the MP servers 18 to reveal the balance level and a public key of the buyer's computing device 16 for verification with a public key received directly from the buyer's computing device 16. The retailer computing device 802 indicates favorable verification when the revealed balance level is sufficient and the received public key from the buyer's computing device 16 compares favorably (e.g., substantially the same) to the revealed public key from the secure EI record 822. As another example, the retailer computing device 802 verifies a signature over the secure transaction portion of the secure EI record 822 utilizing the public key of the MP servers 18 to verify the balance level and to verify the public key of the buyer's computing device 16. The retailer computing device 802 indicates favorable verification when the verified balance level is sufficient and the public key from the buyer's computing device 16 is verified from the secure EI record 822. As yet another verification example, the retail computing device 802 decrypts the hash of the one or more of the elements of the EI information using the private key of the EI distributor 800 (e.g., or a brand server(s) 26) and indicates favorable verification when the decrypted hash is substantially the same as a calculated hash over the one or more of the elements of the EI information. As such, the EI can be considered a legitimately issued EI from the brand server(s) 26 (e.g., from the brand owner).

When the verifications are favorable, the retailer computing device 802 and the buyer's computing device 16 communicate secure transaction completion 820. For example, the buyer's computing device 16 sends payment instructions to the retailer computing device 802 (e.g., purchase price, EI information), the buyer's computing device 16 generates a block 4 of the EI transactions chain to indicate that the buyer's computing device 16 is utilizing the EI for the purchase price amount, where the block 4 is chained to the block 3 in accordance with the trusted chaining approach, and where the block 4 is generated utilizing the trust approach (e.g., as utilized when generating the block 3).

The generating of the block 4 includes generating buyer to retailer payment information 4 (e.g., a confirmed purchase price, payment instructions utilizing the EI, a timestamp of this transaction, purchaser identifier, and the transaction portion of the previous block), and establishing trust for the block 4 utilizing the trust approach. For example, the buyer's computing device 16 obtains the public key of the private/public key pair of the retailer computing device 802, encrypts the buyer to retailer payment information 4 and the public key of the retailer computing device 802 utilizing the private key of the buyer's computing device 16 to produce the transaction section of the block 4 when utilizing the encryption trust approach. As another example, the buyer's computing device 16 utilizes the private key of the buyer's computing device 16 to generate a digital signature over the buyer to retailer payment information 4 and the public key of the retailer computing device 802 to produce the transaction section of the block 4.

Having generated the block 4 chained to the block 3, the buyer's computing device 16 issues the secure transaction completion 820 to the retailer computing device 802. The issuing includes generating the secure transaction completion 820 to include the EI transactions chain (e.g., blocks 0-4) and sending the secure transaction completion 820 to the retailer computing device 802, where the mobile app 198 may facilitate storage of an updated transactions chain as an updated secure EI record 822 in the flash memory 92. Alternatively, or in addition to, each of the seller's computing device 12, the MP servers 18, and the buyer's computing device 16 may validate information within the EI transactions chain by validating the chaining of each block to a next block utilizing the trusted chaining approach and may further validate information with the EI transactions chain by validating integrity of the transaction section of one or more of the blocks utilizing the trust approach (e.g., verifying a signature, decrypting an encrypted transaction to reveal a public key for verification).

In another example of operation of the generating of the transactions blockchain, at least one of the EI distributor 800, the seller's computing device 12, and the MP server(s) 18, authenticates value of an exchange item to produce an authenticated value of the exchange item. The exchange item includes one of a closed loop financial instrument and a digital good. The authenticating of the value includes a variety of authenticating approaches.

A first authenticating approach includes the seller's computing device 12 authenticating the value of the exchange item via a communication with a brand server (e.g., issue an authentication request, interpret a received verification response to identify an available balance of the exchange item associated with the brand server), generating a secure exchange item package, and securely passing, by the seller's computing device 12 to the marketplace servers 18, control over the secure exchange item package such that the marketplace server 18 obtains the control over the secure exchange item package. The securely passing includes updating a transaction section of the secure exchange item package by including a public key of a recipient device (e.g., the marketplace servers 18) of the secure exchange item package and signing the secure exchange item package by a transferring device (e.g., the seller's computing device 12) of the secure exchange item package. The secure exchange item package includes a header section and a transaction section. The secure exchange item package is discussed in greater detail with reference to FIG. 7C. A second authenticating approach includes the MP server(s) 18 authenticating the value of the exchange item via the communication with the brand server, generating the secure exchange item package, and obtaining control over the secure exchange item package as a result of being an originator of the secure exchange item package.

With the authenticated value of the exchange item produced, the marketplace servers 18 obtains control over the secure exchange item package, where the secure exchange item package includes identity of the exchange item, identity of an authenticated owner of the exchange item, identity of the marketplace server, and the authenticated value (e.g., face value of the exchange item or remaining balance of the exchange item) of the exchange item and where only a device possessing control over the secure exchange item package may modify the secure exchange item package.

As an example of the obtaining of the control, the marketplace servers 18 receives from the seller's computing device 12, a request to sell the exchange item (e.g., receives the secure EI information 806). In response to valid processing of the request to sell (e.g., communicating pricing information 808), the seller's computing device 12 securely passes, to the marketplace servers 18, control over the secure exchange item package (e.g., communicates secure sale information 810). Having obtained control, the marketplace servers 18 lists a representation of the exchange item for sale by storing associated inventory information 809 in the database 20 to update the virtual marketplace of exchange items 22.

With the exchange item represented within the virtual marketplace of exchange items 22, the marketplace server 18 receives, from the buyer's computing device 16, a request to purchase the exchange item (e.g., the EI purchase request 812). Having received the request to purchase the exchange item, the marketplace servers 18, in response to valid processing of the request to purchase the exchange item (e.g., exchanging secure buyer wallet information 814), securely passes to the buyer computing device 16, control over the secure exchange item package (e.g., via the secure buyer wallet information 814). Having received the secure buyer wallet information 814, the mobile app 198 stores the secure buyer wallet information 814 as the secure EI record 822 in the flash memory 92.

For use of the exchange item (e.g., as initiated with the transaction request 816), the buyer computing device 16 securely passes, to the retailer computing device 802 (e.g., the merchant server), control over the secure exchange item package. The use may further include the retailer computing device 802 into verifying that the balance of the exchange item is sufficient for a purchase transaction by communicating secure balance verification 818 with the buyer's computing device 16.

With control over the secure exchange item package, the merchant server (e.g., the retailer computing device 802) executes use of the exchange item by updating the value of the exchange item to produce an updated value of the exchange item. For example, the retailer computing device 802 subtracts an amount of the purchase transaction (e.g., for goods provided by a retailer to a user of the buyer's computing device 16) from the value of the exchange item to produce the updated value of the exchange item.

Having generated the updated value of the exchange item, the retailer computing device 802 generates an updated secure exchange item package, where the updated secure exchange item package includes identity of the exchange item, identity of the merchant server, identity of the buyer computing device, and the updated value of the exchange item. Having generated the updated secure exchange item package, the merchant server (e.g., the retailer computing device 802) securely passes control over the updated secure exchange item package to the buyer's computing device 16 (e.g., by communicating the secure transaction completion 820).

Alternatively, or in addition to, for a second use of the exchange item, the buyer's computing device 16 securely passes, to a second merchant server, control over the updated secure exchange item package. The second merchant server executes the second use of the exchange item by updating the updated value of the exchange item to produce a second updated value of the exchange item, generating a second updated secure exchange item package, where the second updated secure exchange item package includes identity of the exchange item, identity of the second merchant server, identity of the buyer's computing device 16, and the second updated value of the exchange item, and securely passes, to the buyer's computing device 16, control over the second updated secure exchange item package.

FIG. 7B is a schematic block diagram of a transactions blockchain where the transactions blockchain includes a plurality of blocks. The transactions blockchain represents an exchange item (EI) transaction chain when the plurality of blocks include exchange item transaction sections. Each block includes a header section and a transaction section. Each other portion links one block to other block in a sequential fashion. The linking is discussed in greater detail with reference to FIG. 7C. The transaction section includes EI transaction information associated with an EI transaction between two or more entities of an exchange item marketplace. For example, the block 0 includes valuable establishment 0 transaction information with regards to a genesis of a particular exchange item to be available to entities of the exchange item marketplace, the block 1 includes seller to distributor payment information 1 transaction information with regards to the seller's computing device 12 purchasing the EI from the EI distributor 800, the block 2 includes marketplace servers 18 to seller representation/payment information 2 transaction information with regards to the seller's computing device 12 offering the EI for sale utilizing the MP servers 18, the block 3 includes buyer to marketplace payment information 3 transaction information with regards to the buyer's computing device 16 purchasing the EI via the MP servers 18 from the seller's computing device 12, and the block 4 includes buyer to retailer payment information 4 transaction information with regards to the buyer's computing device 16 utilizing the EI to complete a desired purchase transaction with the retailer computing device 802.

FIG. 7C is another schematic block diagram of a transactions blockchain. The transactions blockchain includes a plurality of blocks, where each block includes a secure exchange item package. Each secure exchange item package includes a header section and a transaction section. The header section includes one or more of a nonce, a hash of a preceding block of the secure exchange item package, where the preceding block was under control of a preceding device in a chain of control of the secure exchange item package, and a hash of a current block (e.g., a current transaction section) of the secure exchange item package, where the current block is under control of a current device in the chain of control of the secure exchange item package. The transaction section includes one or more of a public key of the current device, a signature of the preceding device, payment information regarding a change of control from the preceding device to the current device, and exchange item information that includes at least some of the identity of the exchange item, a brand of the exchange item, time restrictions of the exchange item, a digital image of the exchange item, the authenticated value, and use restrictions of the exchange item.

FIG. 7C further includes user devices 2-3 (e.g., the seller's computing device 12, the MP servers 18, the buyer's computing device 16, the retailer computing device 802) to facilitate illustration of generation of the secure exchange item package. Each user device includes a hash function, a signature function, and storage for a public/private key pair generated by the user device.

An example of operation of the generating of the secure exchange item package, when the user device 2 has control of the secure exchange item package and is passing control of the secure exchange item package to the user device 3 (e.g., the user device 3 is transacting an exchange with the user device 2), the user device 2 obtains the user 3 public key from the user device 3, performs a hash function 2 over the user 3 public key and the transaction 2 to produce a hashing resultant (e.g., preceding transaction to user device 2) and performs a signature function 2 over the hashing resultant utilizing a user 2 private key to produce a user 2 signature. Having produced the user 2 signature, the user device 2 generates the transaction 3 to include the user 3 public key, the user 2 signature, user 3 payment to the user 2 information, and EI information 2-3. The user 3 payment to the user 2 information includes payment instructions from user 3 to user 2. The EI information 2-3 includes an updated balance of the exchange item (e.g., after the transaction between the user device 3 and the user device 2), a serial number of the exchange item, an expiration date of the exchange item, a type of the exchange item, a brand identifier, an image, a personal identification number, and utilization rules for the exchange item.

Having produced the transaction 3 section of the block 3 (e.g., a secure exchange item package 3), a processing module (e.g., of the user device 2, of the user device 3, of a transaction mining server, of the marketplace server 18) generates the header section by performing a hashing function over the transaction section 3 to produce a transaction 3 hash, performing the hashing function over the preceding secure exchange item package (e.g., block 2) to produce a block 2 hash. The performing of the hashing function may include generating a nonce such that when performing the hashing function to include the nonce of the header section, a desired characteristic of the resulting hash is achieved (e.g., a desired number of preceding zeros is produced in the resulting hash).

Having produced the secure exchange item package 3, the user device 2 sends the secure exchange item package 3 to the user device 3. Having received the secure exchange item package 3, the user device 3 validates the received secure exchange item package 3. The validating includes one or more of verifying the user 2 signature over the preceding transaction section (e.g., transaction 2) and the actual user 3 public key utilizing the user 2 public key (e.g., a re-created signature function result compares favorably to user 2 signature) and verifying that an extracted user 3 public key of the transaction 3 compares favorably to the user 3 public key held by the user device 3. The user device 3 considers the received secure exchange item package 3 validated when the verifications are favorable (e.g., the available balance of the exchange item is trusted). FIG. 7D is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for generating a transactions blockchain. In particular, a method is presented for use in conjunction with one or more functions and features described in conjunction with FIGS. 1-6, 7A-C, and also FIG. 7D. The method includes step 830 where a processing module of a computing device of one or more computing devices of an exchange item marketplace network authenticates value of an exchange item to produce an authenticated value of the exchange item, where the exchange item includes one of a closed loop financial instrument and a digital good.

As an example of the authenticating the value of the exchange item, a seller device authenticates the value of the exchange item via a communication with a brand server, generates a secure exchange item package, and securely passes, to the marketplace server, control over the secure exchange item package such that the marketplace server obtains the control over the secure exchange item package. The securely passing includes updating a transaction section of the secure exchange item package by including a public key of a recipient device of the secure exchange item package and signing the secure exchange item package by a transferring device of the secure exchange item package. The secure exchange item package includes a header section and a transaction section. As another example of the authenticating the value of the exchange item, the marketplace server authenticates the value of the exchange item via a communication with the brand server, generates the secure exchange item package, and obtains control over the secure exchange item package as a result of being an originator of the secure exchange item package.

The method continues at step 832 where the marketplace server obtains control over the secure exchange item package, where the secure exchange item package includes identity of the exchange item, identity of an authenticated owner of the exchange item, identity of the marketplace server, and the authenticated value (e.g., face value of the exchange item and/or a remaining balance of the exchange item) of the exchange item and where only a device possessing control over the secure exchange item package may modify the secure exchange item package. As an example of the obtaining of the control, the marketplace server receives, from the seller device, a request to sell the exchange item and in response to valid processing of the request to sell, the seller device securely passes, to the marketplace server, control over the secure exchange item package.

The method continues at step 834 where the marketplace server receives, from a buyer device, a request to purchase the exchange item. In response to valid processing of the request to purchase the exchange item, the method continues at step 836 where the marketplace server securely passes, to the buyer device, control over the secure exchange item package. For use of the exchange item, the method continues at step 838 where the buyer device securely passes, to a merchant server, control over the secure exchange item package.

The method continues at step 840 where the margin server executes use of the exchange item by updating the value of the exchange item to produce an updated value of the exchange item (e.g., deducting a purchase price of a purchase transaction from the value of the exchange item to produce the updated value the exchange item). The method continues at step 842 where the merchant server generates an updated secure exchange item package, where the updated secure exchange item package includes identity of the exchange item, identity of the merchant server, identity of the buyer device, and the updated value of the exchange item. The method continues at step 844 where the merchant server securely passes, to the buyer device, control over the updated secure exchange item package.

Alternatively, or in addition to, for a second use of the exchange item, the buyer device securely passes, to a second merchant server, control over the updated secure exchange item package. The second merchant server executes the second use of the exchange item by updating the updated value of the exchange item to produce a second updated value of the exchange item, generates a second updated secure exchange item package, where the second updated secure exchange item package includes identity of the exchange item, identity of the second merchant server, identity of the buyer device, and the second updated value of the exchange item, and securely passing, to the buyer device, control over the second updated secure exchange item package.

The method described above in conjunction with one or more of the processing module, the seller device, the marketplace server, the buyer device, the merchant server, the second merchant server, can alternatively be performed by other modules of the exchange item marketplace network or by other devices. In addition, at least one memory section (e.g., a non-transitory computer readable storage medium, a computer readable memory) that stores operational instructions can, when executed by one or more processing modules of one or more computing devices of the exchange item marketplace network, cause the one or more computing devices to perform any or all of the method steps described above.

FIG. 7E is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method for generating a transactions blockchain. In particular, a method is presented for use in conjunction with one or more functions and features described in conjunction with FIGS. 1-6, 7A-D, and also FIG. 7E. The method includes step 850 where a processing module of a computing device (e.g., of an exchange item origination entity) of one or more computing devices of an exchange item marketplace network generates an origination block of an EI transaction chain, where the EI origination entity signs a transaction portion of the origination block, and where the transaction portion indicates EI information of an associated EI. For example, the origination entity generates value establishment information in accordance with a trust approach (e.g., self-signing over the value establishment information to produce the transaction portion, signing the value establishment information, that includes a public key of a private/public key pair of the EI origination entity, utilizing the private key to produce the transaction portion).

When receiving an EI purchase request from a seller computing device, the method continues at step 852 where a processing module of an EI distribution entity generates a first block of the EI transactions chain, where the EI distribution entity signs the transaction portion of the first block, where the transaction portion indicates that the seller computing device is purchasing the EI from the distribution entity, and where the first block is chained to the origination block in accordance with a chained security approach (e.g., hash of transaction portion, hash of a previous block). The EI distribution entity may be implemented utilizing the EI origination entity. For example, the EI distribution entity signs the transaction portion utilizing a private key of a private/public key pair of the seller computing device to produce the transaction portion of the first block.

When transacting a representation of the EI with a marketplace server, the method continues at step 854 where the seller computing device generates a second block of the EI transactions chain, where the seller computing device signs a transaction portion of the second block, where the transaction portion indicates that the MP server is representing the EI for the seller computing device, and where the second block is chained to the first block in accordance with the chained security approach. For example, the MP server receives secured EI information from the seller computing device (e.g., an offer for sale), provides pricing information to the seller computing device, receives a confirmed price from the seller computing device, issues secure sale information to the seller computing device, and updates inventory information within a virtual exchange item marketplace, where the secure sale information includes the second block of the EI transactions chain and a public key of the MP server.

When receiving a purchase request for the EI from a buyer computing device, the method continues at step 856 where the MP server generates a third block of the EI transactions chain, where the MP server signs a transaction portion of the third block, where the transaction portion indicates that the buyer computing device is purchasing the EI from the seller computing device via the marketplace, and where the third block is chained to the second block in accordance with the chained security approach. For example, the buyer computing device issues an EI purchase request to the MP server based on received inventory information from the MP server, the MP server generates secure buyer wallet information, the buyer computing device stores a security EI record, where the secure buyer wallet information includes the third block of the EI transactions chain and the secure EI record includes the EI transactions chain. For instance, the MP server signs a public key of the buyer computing device and the transaction portion utilizing a private key of a private/public key pair of the MP server to produce the transaction portion of the third block.

When utilizing the EI for payment in a purchasing transaction with a retailer computing device, the method continues at step 858 where the buyer computing device generates a fourth block of the EI transactions chain, where the buyer computing device signs a transaction portion of the fourth block, where the transaction portion indicates that the buyer computing device is utilizing the EI for payment in the purchasing transaction, and where the fourth block is chained to the third block in accordance with the chained security approach. For example, the buyer computing device issues a transaction request to the retailer computing device, the retailer computing device exchanges secure balance information with the buyer computing device (e.g., verifies the trust of the EI transactions chain, where the EI transactions chain indicates an available balance of the EI verifying that an available balance is sufficient), the retailer computing device issues secure transaction completion information to the buyer computing device, where the secure transaction completion information includes the fourth block of the EI transactions chain. The buyer computing device signs the public key of the retailer computing device and the transaction portion to produce a transaction portion of the fourth block. Alternatively, or in addition to, each entity of the plurality of transactions may verify the EI transactions chain by verifying a stored public key matches to recovered public keys when validating signatures over associated blocks.

The method described above in conjunction with the exchange item origination entity, the seller computing device, the buyer computing device, and the retailer computing device can alternatively be performed by other modules of the exchange item marketplace network or by other devices. In addition, at least one memory section (e.g., a non-transitory computer readable storage medium, a computer readable memory) that stores operational instructions can, when executed by one or more processing modules of one or more computing devices of the exchange item marketplace network, cause the one or more computing devices to perform any or all of the method steps described above.

FIG. 8A is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for utilizing an exchange item in an exchange item marketplace network. The method includes step 860 where a processing module (e.g., of a brand server, of a marketplace server) creates one or more exchange items to be offered for sale through the exchange item marketplace network. The method continues at step 862 where an initial owner acquires at least one of the EIs. The method continues at step 864 where a processing module of the exchange item marketplace network establishes initial conditions. Conditions includes types of conditions and values for the types of conditions. For example, a weather condition is associated with a value of a current temperature. As another example, a sports team score is associated with a particular game outcome. Other examples of condition types include stock prices, world events, purchase history of users associated with the exchange item marketplace, pricing history associated with exchange items, a physical location, a customer name, a merchant name, a brand-name, a date, a time, etc.

The establishing of the conditions includes utilizing the predetermination, interpreting the lookup, interpreting a query response, receiving the conditions, identifying the conditions based on or more of identification of the initial owner, identification of the brand of the EI, an EI type indicator, and EI serial number, and an EI utilization rule, etc. For example, the marketplace server performs a lookup based on a serial number of the exchange item to establish the initial conditions.

The method continues at step 866 where the processing module determines whether the EI has been used (e.g., redeemed, utilized for making a purchase, bartered, etc.). The determining includes interpreting a status associated with the EI of an exchange item database, interpreting a received a use message, receiving purchase transaction information, etc. the method branches to step 874 when the processing module determines that the EI has not been used. The method continues to step 868 when the processing module determines that the EI has been used.

When the EI has been used, the method continues at step 868 where the processing module processes the EI use. The processing includes one or more of facilitating completion of a purchase transaction, facilitating payment distribution, and updating the exchange item database to indicate the use. The method continues at step 870 where the processing module determines whether the EI is exhausted (e.g., no value left). The determining includes comparing a balance value associated with the EI to a minimum threshold level (e.g., zero dollars). For example, the processing module indicates that the EI has been exhausted when the balance value is zero. The method looks back to step 866 when the EI is not exhausted. The method continues to step 872 when the EI is exhausted where the EI is retired. Alternatively, and in accordance with a rule associated with exchange item, the processing module maintains the zero balance exchange item without retiring the exchange item (e.g., to keep open an opportunity to refresh the exchange item). The retiring includes the processing module updating the exchange item database to indicate that the EI has been exhausted and retired from use.

When the EI has not been utilized, the method continues at step 874 with a processing module determines whether the EI is to be offered for sale. The determining includes receiving a request to offer the EI for sale, interpreting a rule with regards to sale, interpreting a status associated with the EI, and receiving a purchase request for the EI. The method branches to step 878 when the EI is not to be offered for sale. The method continues to step 876 when the EI is to be offered for sale where the processing module posts the EI in the marketplace. For example, the processing module updates the exchange item database to indicate that the EI is for sale.

The mother continues at step 878 where the processing module determines whether the EI has been sold. The determining includes one or more of receiving purchase transaction information, interpreting a request for purchase of the EI, and interpreting a status associated with the EI in the exchange item database. The method branches to step 882 when the EI has not been sold. The method continues to step 880 when the EI has been sold where the processing module processes the sale and updates information. For example, the processing module updates the exchange item database to indicate that the EI has been sold, the purchase amount, and identification of the (new) owner.

The method continues at step 882 where the processing module updates the conditions. For example, the processing module obtains updated date and time information, sports scores, stock market information, world events information, and weather information. With the conditions updated, utilization and sale of other exchange items may be affected as different use rules associated with the different exchange items may unable shifts in parameters associated with exchange items. For example, an additional discount for a particular branded exchange item may be enabled when a temperature value of a temperature condition is less than a low threshold value. As another example, a balance of another exchange item may be increased by 10% for a two-hour time frame when a local baseball team wins a game and the exchange item is associated with a brand of the local baseball team. Having updated the conditions, the method loops back to step 866

FIG. 8B is a logic diagram family of an embodiment of a method for utilizing rules in an exchange item (EI) marketplace network. A rule is associated with utilization of an exchange item. The rule may be imposed by one or more of an issuing brand, a merchant, an alternative brand, and by a marketplace server of the exchange item marketplace. A rule specifies allowable values or ranges of values of parameters associated with an exchange item is a function of one or more conditions and of one or more use options. Rules be imposed independently (e.g., alone without any interaction with other rules), in series (e.g., first rule invoked followed by a second rule invoked), in parallel (e.g., operating two or more rules together, and may interact where a first rule status may be utilized by a second rule), or in a nested fashion (e.g., where a rule is triggered when a value associated with a preceding rule compares favorably to a trigger threshold level). Each EI rule is associated with a rule lifecycle, which includes creation of the EI rule, and may include invoking of the EI rule and updating of the EI rule and/or of an associated EI of the EI rule (e.g., updating a marketplace server database).

A method associated with the creation of the EI rule includes step 890 where a processing module (e.g., by a brand server, by a marketplace server) determines whether an exchange item (EI) rule has been invoked. The determining may be based on one or more of interpreting values of conditions in accordance with the EI rule, receiving a message indicating that the rule has been invoked, and detecting an activity associated with the invoking of the rule. The method branches to steps 892 and 894 when the EI rule has been invoked. The method branches to step 902 when the EI rule has not been invoked where the processing module determines whether the EI rule has changed. The determining may be based on one or more of interpreting a change flag, receiving a change message, observing activity associated with a change of the rule, and comparing a previous EI rule to the EI rule. The method continues to step 904 when the EI rule has not been changed where the processing module determines whether the EI rule has expired (e.g., detecting that an active timeframe associated with the EI rule has elapsed). The method loops back to step 890 when the EI rule has not expired.

When the EI rule has been invoked, the method continues at step 892 where the processing module notifies a current owner of the invoked EI rule (e.g., issuing a message to a brand server that established (i.e., owner) the rule) and the method continues at step 894 where the processing module updates the EI based on the invoked EI rule. The updating includes modifying a record of the EI in the marketplace server database immediately or upon receiving a permissions grant from the owner, modifying the record of the EI in the marketplace server database.

The method continues at step 896 where the processing module determines whether the EI rule has been revoked. The determining may be based on one or more of interpreting updated conditions associated with the EI rule and indicating that the EI rule has been revoked and receiving a message indicating that the EI rule has been revoked (e.g., from a brand server). The method loops back to step 890 when the EI rule has not been revoked. The method continues to steps 898 and 900 when the EI rule has been revoked. The method continues at step 898 where the processing module notifies the current owner of the revoked EI rule (e.g., issuing an EI revoked message) and updates the associated EI based on the revoked EI rule (e.g., updates the marketplace server database).

A method associated with the invoking of the EI rule includes step 906 where the processing module tracks conditions for exchange items of a rule set. For example, the processing module receives conditions data associated with a plurality of conditions types and maps the conditions data a plurality of exchange items associated with rules that rely on the conditions to activate a course of action. The method continues at step 908 where the processing module, per exchange item, determines when a condition conforms to a rule to invoke the rule. For example, the processing module indicates to invoke the rule when a condition of the rule meets a threshold level.

A method associated with the updating of the EI rule includes step 910 where the marketplace server takes control of the exchange item. The taking of control includes invoking a rule that includes granting updating authority for the marketplace server. With the authority to update the exchange item in the marketplace server database, the marketplace server may modify a rule, add a rule, delete a rule, add conditions associated with a rule, delete conditions associated with a rule, and modify conditions associated with a rule.

The method continues at step 912 where the marketplace server updates the exchange item. For example, the marketplace server recovers a portion (e.g., a single transaction blockchain including a ledger of all exchange items) of the marketplace server database and modifies the recovered portion (e.g., modifies the blockchain) to produce an updated portion of the marketplace server database. The method continues at step 914 where the marketplace server signs the updated exchange item. For example, the marketplace server utilizes a private key of a public/private key pair of the marketplace server to electronically sign the updated exchange item to produce a signature of the marketplace server. The method continues at step 916 where the marketplace server returns control of the signed updated exchange item. For example, the marketplace server stores the signed updated exchange item into the marketplace or database and pushes the signed updated exchange item to one or more entities of the exchange item marketplace network. For instance, the marketplace server sends the signed updated exchange item to a computing device associated with purchase of the exchange item. As another instance, the marketplace server sends the signed updated exchange item to a brand server associated with the exchange item. Such a signed updated exchange item is illustrated where exchange item serial number 5, that is associated with owner AA, includes conditions e3, f6, p5 that is associated with the exchange item 5, and that now follows a rule set 4.

FIG. 8D is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network that includes the initial owner computing device 928 of FIG. 6, the EI issuing server 920 of FIG. 6, the EI trusted module 922 of FIG. 6, the marketplace server 18 of FIG. 6, and the marketplace database 20 of FIG. 6. Entities of the exchange item marketplace network may be operably coupled through the network 24 of FIG. 6 or may be directly connected to each other. The exchange item marketplace functions to establish agreements and set up exchange items. Such agreements include terms for one or more of creation of exchange items (EI), creation of EI rules for the exchange items, identification of condition types and condition values to be utilized in conjunction with the EI rules, and facilitating payment for sale and/or utilization of an exchange item. The agreements may involve two or more parties, such as a brand, a merchant, and an alternative brand. For example, an agreement between a brand and a merchant associated with the brand indicates a discount range associated with a particular exchange item. As another example, an agreement between a brand and the alternative brand indicates which products may be purchased using an exchange item not associated with the product. Agreement information includes one or more agreement points of each agreement (e.g., value, discount, balance, permissions, etc.).

In an example of operation of the establishing of the agreements and setting up of the exchange items, the setup (i.e., or set up) processing 936 of the marketplace server 18 establishes the agreement database 930. The establishing includes receiving agreement information and updating the agreement database 930 within the marketplace database 20. For example, the marketplace server 18 issues a query to one or more of the EI issuing server 920, another issuing server, a merchant server, another merchant server; and receives a query response. As another example, the marketplace server 18 receives an unsolicited message including the agreement information. Having received the agreement information, the marketplace server updates the agreement database 930. The agreement database 930 correlates issuer information, merchant information, and agreement information. For example, the agreement database 930 associates issuer A_1 with a merchant A_1_n as bound by an agreement aa (e.g., including one or more agreement points).

Having established the agreements, the marketplace server 18 facilitates setting up of the exchange items to include establishment of exchange item (EI) rules. An initiating entity establishes a first rule for a new exchange item. The initiating entity includes at least one of the EI issuing server 920 and the set of processing hundred and 36 of the marketplace server 18. The first rule is associated with establishment of a security approach to ensure that and subsequent rules associated with the EI can be trusted by all marketplace participants as time proceeds. For example, the EI issuing server 920 establishes trust information 954 to include a first contract block of a contract blockchain, where private/public key pairs are utilized to ensure trust as previously discussed with reference to FIGS. 7A-E. The first contract block establishes the EI issuing server 920 as the owner (e.g., a root of the contract blockchain).

The initiating entity further establishes the new exchange item. For example, the EI issuing server 920 establishes EI information 950 (e.g., value, type, issuance date, expiration date, use parameters, etc.). The initiating entity further establishes content of the first rule, and further content of other rules as an EI rule set 952. For example, the EI issuing server 920 utilizes a 4^(th) set of EI rules and an EI of serial number 5 for issuer B_K (e.g., identity of the EI issuing server 920) to include EI 05 info. The EI005 is to be for sale and is bound by a fourth set of EI rules which are associated with conditions e3, f6, p5 in accordance with use options of the issuer B_K. Having obtained the EI information 950 and the EI rule set 952, the set up processing 936 verifies the received EI information and set by exchanging set up verification 956 with the EI trusted module 922. For example, the EI trusted module 922 verifies the contract blockchain and sends an indication of a status of the verification to the marketplace server 18.

When the EI information 950 in the EI rule set 952 have been verified, set of processing 936 updates the exchange item database 934 of the marketplace database 20 with the EI information 950 in the EI rule set 952. For instance, the setup processing 936 establishes the role of the exchange item database 934 associated with the EI serial number 005. The set of processing 936 may further update the user database 932 to include a list of known users of the marketplace, a history of EI buying, selling, and using. For example, the set of processing 936 updates the user database 932 when the initial owner computing device 928 (e.g., owner AA) purchases the new EI by exchanging set up information 958 with the marketplace server 18. The initial owner computing device 928 updates a digital wallet 946 of the initial owner computing device 928 with an owner table. The owner table includes one or more of a list of EI serial numbers, and for each EI, an identifier of an issuer, associated EI information, use options, EI rules associated with the EI, and conditions associated with the EI. Alternatively, or in addition to, the marketplace server maintains a copy of the owner table in the marketplace database 20.

FIG. 8E is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network that includes the initial owner computing device 928 of FIG. 6, the EI buyer computing device 926 of FIG. 6, the EI trusted module 922 of FIG. 6, the marketplace server 18 of FIG. 6, and the marketplace database 20 of FIG. 6. The exchange item marketplace functions to process a sale of an exchange item (EI) from the initial owner computing device 928 to the EI buyer computing device 926.

In an example of operation of the processing of the sale of the EI serial number 005 by the initial owner computing device 928 (e.g., owner AA) the EI buyer computing device 926 (e.g., owner DZ), the sale processing 938 of the marketplace server 18 exchanges sale information 966 with the initial owner computing device 928, where the sale information 966 includes one or more of the EI serial number 005, a sale price, use options, a commission amount (e.g., to the marketplace), and credit information (e.g., a 05 credit of generic value usable in the marketplace to purchase another EI or to be converted into another form of payment). The initial owner computing device 928 updates the digital wallet 946 to indicate that the EI serial number 005 has been sold and that the 05 credit is available.

The sale processing 938 further exchanges sale verification 968 with the EI trusted module 922. For example, the EI trusted module 922 verifies the contract blockchain and a transaction blockchain associated with the EI to ensure that the sale is within sale allowance parameters associated with the EI as imposed by one or more of an agreement, and EI rule, conditions, and use options. When verified, the EI trusted module 922 issues the sale verification 968 to the sale processing 938 indicating that the sale is verified.

The sale processing 938 further exchanges purchase information 970 with the EI buyer computing device 926, such that the EI buyer computing device 926 updates the digital wallet 944 indicating that owner DZ has the EI serial number 005. Having processed the sale of the EI 005, the sale processing 938 updates the marketplace database 20 indicating that the EI serial 005 is now associated with owner DZ and is not currently for sale.

FIG. 8F is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network that includes the EI buyer computing device 926 of FIG. 6, the EI trusted module 922 of FIG. 6, the merchant server 924 FIG. 6, the marketplace server 18 of FIG. 6, and the marketplace database 20 of FIG. 6. The exchange item marketplace functions to process use of an exchange item (EI) by the EI buyer computing device 926 with the merchant server 924.

In an example of operation of the use of the EI, the EI buyer computing device 926 obtains EI info from the digital wallet 944 to issue buyer use information 976 to the marketplace server 18 when desiring to utilize the exchange item (e.g., EI serial number 005) with a merchant associated with the merchant server 924 for purchase of goods and/or services. When receiving the buyer use information 976, the use processing 940 of the marketplace server 18 verifies the use by exchanging use verification 978 with the EI trusted module 922. The use verification 978 includes one or more of the buyer use information 976 and an associated row of the exchange item database 934 associated with the exchange item (e.g., the row associated with the exchange item serial number 005). For example, the EI trusted module 922 verifies that the use of the EI compares favorably with the associated rules, conditions, and use options.

When receiving favorable use verification 978, the use processing 940 exchanges merchant use information 980 with the merchant server 924 to complete the use of exchange item. Alternatively, the marketplace server 18 receives the merchant use information 980 from the merchant server 924 via the EI buyer computing device 926 as part of the buyer use information 976 (e.g., a secure blockchain element is generated by the merchant server 924 and communicated directly to the EI buyer computing device 926).

The merchant use information 980 includes one or more of the buyer use information 976, the use verification 978, and any additional information to complete the use of the EI. Upon completion of the use of the EI, the use processing 940 updates the exchange item database 934 indicating that the EI has been utilized (e.g., indicating an amount of an outstanding balance utilized and a remaining available balance etc.). Alternatively, or in addition to, the use processing 940 performs a merchant verification process in accordance with a rule associated with the exchange item. For example, the use processing 940 extracts security information from the merchant use information 980, exchanges use information 976 with the EI trusted module 922, and interprets a use verification 978 response from the EI trusted module 922 to determine whether the merchant server 924 is verified (e.g., non-fraudulent). The EI trusted module 922 may verify the merchant server 924 by a variety of approaches including accessing a database of fraudulent merchants, invoking a rule of an associated exchange item to test a plurality parameters associated with the merchant use information 980, and requesting that the merchant server 924 electronically sign a message to verify that the merchant server 924 holds a correct private key associated with a previously verified merchant server 924.

FIG. 8G is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network that includes the EI buyer computing device 926 of FIG. 6, the EI issuing server 920, the EI trusted module 922 of FIG. 6, the marketplace server 18 of FIG. 6, and the marketplace database 20 of FIG. 6. The exchange item marketplace functions to process rules associated with an exchange item (EI).

In an example of operation of the processing of the rules, the rule processing 942 of the marketplace server 18 records conditions for a plurality exchange items. A condition of the conditions for the plurality of exchange items further includes one of a range of time, a range of dates, a geographic location, a building address, a list of items, a user tendency profile, and a user loyalty profile. For example, the marketplace server 18 obtains the condition from a corresponding condition source.

For an exchange item of the plurality of exchange items, where the exchange item has a quantifiable value (e.g., valid tender, offered something formally in writing, offered a sum for a settlement, same as money, offer made to settle something), a serial number, and a current owner, the rule processing 942 determines whether a corresponding condition of the exchange item is compliant with one or more rules of an applicable set of rules (e.g., a contract regarding the exchange item from the issuer, where a set of rules is utilized for each EI, or for a group of EIs, for each owner, by brand, by retailer, etc.). The determining includes utilizing a sliding scale of compliance (e.g., conditional chaining) based on one or more of a user profile, exchange item information, an exchange item issuer, limited exchange item use, and timing of use. For example, the rule processing 942 obtains information with regards to conditions and EI rules from the exchange item database 934 and interprets conditions data in accordance with the EI rules to determine the compliance. For example, the rule processing 942 indicates that a weather rule is compliant when a temperature condition indicates a temperature value that is greater than a temperature threshold value associated with the weather rule.

The rule processing 942 may verify the compliance with the EI rule by obtaining issuer rule information 986 from the EI issuing server 920 associated with the EI and by further verifying compliance by exchanging rule verification 990 with the EI trusted module 922. The verifying of compliance further includes verifying a security scheme (e.g., contract blockchain or the EI rules) and by checking that the EI rule compares favorably to the issuer rule information 986 from the EI issuing server 920.

The rule processing 942 may update the applicable set of rules based on one or more of a rule changing, a rule expiring, and a new rule being added to the set. For example, the rule processing 942 updates the exchange item database 934 and sends owner rule info 988 to the EI buyer computing device 926 to indicate an EI rule change associated with a particular EI when current conditions and a previous rule indicate changing the rule when the conditions are compliant.

The rule processing 942 may further determine a specific use as the one or more rules of the applicable rule set (e.g., for a specific product, a specific store, etc.). For example, the rule processing 942 identifies raising a discount level for the exchange item in accordance with the EI rule as the specific use in accordance with the EI rule and favorable conditions to alter the discount level. Alternatively, or in addition to, the rule processing 942 determines a specific time frame as the one or more rules of the applicable rule set (e.g., for a set period of time, a day, etc.). For example, the rule processing 942 identifies a two-hour time window for the raised discount level for the exchange item in accordance with the one or more rules.

When the corresponding condition of the exchange item is compliant with the one or more rules, the rule processing 942 establishes a secure communication with a computing device affiliated with a current owner (e.g., of the exchange item and/or of the contract blockchain) to take control of the exchange item (e.g., to update an exchange item record of the exchange item). Having control includes holding a private key associated with modifying a blockchain associated with the exchange item. For example, the rule processing 942 exchanges a secure owner rule information 988 with the EI buyer computing device 926 associated with an exchange item serial number 005, where the rule processing 942, in accordance with a security rule, is allowed to modify the contract blockchain with regards to the EI rules.

While having control over the exchange item, the rule processing 942 securely modifies the quantifiable value of the exchange item based on the one or more rules to produce a modified exchange item. For example, the rule processing 942 adds another contract block to the contract blockchain, where the additional contract block includes a modified exchange item as modified exchange item info serial number 005. The modifying of the quantifiable value includes increasing the quantifiable value for the specific use when the specific use is utilized as the one or more rules of the applicable rule set and securely modifying the quantifiable value of the exchange item in accordance with the blockchain protocol.

Having modified the quantifiable value of the modified exchange item, the rule processing 942 sends a notification message (e.g., owner rule information 988) to the computing device (e.g., the EI buyer computing device 926) regarding the increased quantifiable value and the specific use. Having received the notification message, the EI buyer computing device 926 stores the (modified) exchange item in accordance with the blockchain protocol (e.g., stores the contract blockchain including the new contract block in the digital wallet 944).

The modifying of the quantifiable value may further include increasing the quantifiable value for use during the specific time frame when the specific time frame is utilized as the one or more rules of the applicable rule set (e.g., an increase discount level for the next two hours). Having modified the quantifiable value, the rule processing 942 sends another notification message to the computing device regarding the increased quantifiable value and the specific time frame.

While having control over the exchange item, the rule processing 942 further prevents the computing device or another computing device from accessing the exchange item. For example, the rule processing 942 issues owner rule information 988 to the EI buyer computing device 926 indicating that the exchange item is not to be utilized while being modified. Alternatively, or in addition to, the rule processing 942 updates the exchange item database 934 indicating that the exchange item is not to be accessed while being modified. When completing the modification, the rule processing 942 releases, via the secure communication, control of the modified exchange item to the computing device affiliated with the current owner. For example, the rule processing 942 issues yet another owner rule information 988 to the EI buyer computing device 926 indicating that the exchange item has been updated and released.

With the exchange item updated, and when the specific time frame expires (e.g., when utilized) and the modified exchange item is unused (e.g., the EI buyer computing device 926 has not used the modified exchange item at all), the rule processing 942 facilitates reverting of the exchange item. The reverting of the exchange item includes one or more of establishing another secure communication with the computing device affiliated with exchange item to take control of the modified exchange item and while having control over the modified exchange item, decreasing the increased quantifiable value to the quantifiable value to produce a reverted exchange item, preventing the computing device or another computing device from accessing the exchange item, releasing, via the other secure communication, control of the reverted exchange item to the computing device affiliated with the current owner, and sending another notification message to the computing device regarding the reverted exchange item.

Alternatively, when the specific time frame expires, and the modified exchange item was used but did not exhaust the quantifiable value, the rule processing 942 facilitates producing a further modified EI. The facilitating to produce the further modified EI includes one or more of identifying another rule of the applicable set of rules to further modify the modified exchange item, establishing another secure communication with the computing device affiliated to take control of the modified exchange item, and while having control over the modified exchange item, the rule processing 942 increases a remaining quantifiable value to produce a further modified exchange item, prevents the computing device or another computing device from accessing to the modified exchange item, releases, via the other secure communication, control of the further modified exchange item to the computing device affiliated with the current owner, and sends another notification message to the computing device regarding the further modified exchange item. With the modified exchange item, the EI buyer computing device 926 may utilize the modified exchange item in conjunction with a purchase transaction from a merchant. For example, the EI buyer computing device 926 sends a use request to another server (e.g., a merchant server) regarding the modified exchange item (e.g., to utilize the modified EI for the purchase transaction). Having received the use request, the other server sends a use notification to the marketplace server 18. Having received the use notification, the rule processing 942 of the market place over 18 establishes a second secure communication with the computing device affiliated with the current owner to take control of the modified exchange item (e.g., exchanges owner rule information 988 with the EI buyer computing device 926).

While having control over the exchange item, the marketplace server 18 securely adjusts the quantifiable value of the exchange item based on the use notification to produce an adjusted exchange item (e.g., decrements a remaining balance by an amount of the purchase transaction and updates one or more of a transaction blockchain and the contract blockchain) and prevents the computing device, the other server, or other computing devices from accessing the exchange item. Once modified, the marketplace server 18 releases, via the second secure communication, control of the adjusted exchange item to the computing device affiliated with the current owner.

FIG. 8H is a diagram of an exchange item (EI) database 934 that includes a variety of fields. The variety of fields includes an EI serial number, and issuer, and owner, EI information, conditions, EI rules, offer for sale, use options, blockchain control, and blockchain location when a blockchain approach is utilized as a security mechanism for entities trading in the EI to verify attributes associated with the EI. For example, a transaction blockchain is associated with transactions from birth of the EI to complete utilization/retirement of the EI and a contract blockchain associated with EI rule changes as time progresses. A structure of the transaction blockchain and the contract blockchain is discussed in greater detail with reference to FIG. 8J.

To ensure favorable security, a controlling entity desiring to modify the blockchain must be associated with control of the blockchain as indicated by the blockchain control field of the exchange item database 934. The controlling entity may change from one entity to another during the EI lifecycle and may further be constrained as indicated by the EI rules. For example, a particular blockchain may be controlled by the EI issuer in the beginning and later controlled by the marketplace server in accordance with the EI rules established by the EI issuer. As another example, the blockchain may be controlled by the merchant server to update rules and conditions to support a particular promotion as allowed by the original and current EI rules.

A most recent revision of a particular blockchain may be temporarily stored in one or more entities of the exchange item marketplace as indicated by the blockchain location field. As such, the controlling entity may utilize the exchange item database 934 to identify the entity where the blockchain is temporarily stored to gain access to the blockchain for modification in accordance with the rules and conditions.

FIG. 8J is another schematic block diagram of a transactions blockchain that includes a series of transaction blocks. Each transaction block includes a security bridge from a last block to this block (e.g., hash over previous block and a previous nonce, and a hash over a current block and a current nonce), transaction information, a signature by a current seller over the transaction info, and a contract blockchain. The transaction information includes a next purchaser public key (e.g., a public key of a public/private key pair of the next purchaser associated with a next transaction), payment information, and EI information. The payment information includes payment information (e.g., payment amount, payment source, etc.) from the next purchaser to the current seller associated with the current block. The signature is created by the current seller signing the transaction information utilizing the private key of a public/private key pair of the current seller.

The contract blockchain includes one or more contract blocks representing changes to rules and/or conditions of the EI of the EI information. For example, the contract blockchain includes a complete contract blockchain for substantially all of the rules and/or conditions changes. As another example, the contract blockchain includes at least one contract block associated with the transaction block. Alternatively, or in addition to, the contract blockchain is maintained separately and is not included within the transaction block. Further alternatively, a single combined transaction and contract blockchain is maintained as one entity.

Each contract block includes a security bridge from a last block to this block, a contract package (from a last contract block to this contract block), and a signature by a current rules owner over the contract package. Each contract package includes at least one next owner public key (e.g., associated with an exchange item marketplace entity expected to be a next owner of the contract blockchain), and contract information. The contract information includes one or more of EI rules, conditions, use options, EI information, agreements, merchant identifiers, issuer identifier, EI serial number, owner identifier, an offer for sale indicator, etc. The signature over the contract packages created by a current owner of the contract blockchain signing the contract package utilizing a private key of a public/private key pair associated with the current owner of the contract blockchain. The or more blockchains may be verified from time to time utilizing industry-standard mining approaches and are applicable to both proof of work, proof of stake, and other hybrid mining techniques.

FIG. 8K is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for modifying an exchange item in an exchange item marketplace network. In particular, a method is presented for use in conjunction with one or more functions and features described in conjunction with FIGS. 1-7E, 8A-J, and also FIG. 8K. The method includes step 1000 where a processing module of a server (e.g., a marketplace server of a communication system) records conditions for a plurality of exchange items. For an exchange item of the plurality of exchange items, where the exchange item has a quantifiable value, a serial number, and a current owner, the method continues at step 1002 where the processing module determines whether a corresponding condition of the exchange item is compliant with one or more rules of an applicable set of rules. The determining may include determining a specific use as the one or more rules of the applicable rule set. The determining may further include determining a specific time frame as the one or more rules of the applicable rule set. The determining may yet further include utilizing a sliding scale of compliance based on one or more of a user profile, an exchange item information, exchange item issuer, limited exchange item use, and timing of use. The determining may still further include updating the applicable set of rules based on one or more of a rule changing, a rule expiring, and a new rule being added to the set. For example, updating the rules and utilizing the updated rules for a compliance determination.

When the corresponding condition of the exchange item is compliant with the one or more rules, the method continues at step 1004 where the processing module establishes a secure communication with a computing device affiliated with the current owner to take control of the exchange item. For example, the processing module accesses a contract blockchain currently possessed by the computing device.

While having control over the exchange item, the method continues at step 1006 where the processing module securely modifies the quantifiable value of the exchange item based on the one or more rules to produce a modified exchange item. The modifying may include modifying the quantifiable value by increasing the quantifiable value for the specific use when the specific use is utilized as the one or more rules of the applicable rule set and securely modifying the quantifiable value of the exchange item in accordance with a blockchain protocol (e.g., of the contract blockchain). The modifying may further include sending a notification message to the computing device regarding the increased quantifiable value and the specific use and storing, by the computing device, the exchange item in accordance with the blockchain protocol. The modifying of the quantifiable value may further include increasing the quantifiable value for use during the specific time frame (e.g., an increased discount for the next two hours) when the specific time frame is utilized as the one or more rules of the applicable rule set and sending a notification message to the computing device regarding the increased quantifiable value and the specific time frame. While having control over the exchange item, the processing module prevents the computing device or another computing device from accessing the exchange item (e.g., marking the modified exchange item as not accessible).

The method continues at step 1008 where the processing module releases, via the secure communication, control of the modified exchange item to the computing device affiliated with the current owner. For example, the processing module marks the modified exchange item as accessible enabling use of the modified exchange item by the computing device (e.g., to make a purchase transaction). When the specific time frame expires (e.g., two hours has elapsed), and the modified exchange item was used but did not exhaust the quantifiable value, the method branches to step 1012. When the specific time frame expires and the modified exchange item is unused, the method continues to step 1010.

When the specific time frame expires and the modified exchange item is unused, the method continues at step 1010 where the processing module facilitates producing a reverted EI. The facilitating includes establishing another secure communication with the computing device affiliated to take control of the modified exchange item. While having control over the modified exchange item, the processing module decreases the increased quantifiable value to the quantifiable value to produce a reverted exchange item, prevents the computing device or another computing device from accessing the exchange item, releases, via the other secure communication, control of the reverted exchange item to the computing device affiliated with the current owner, and sends another notification message to the computing device regarding the reverted exchange item. The method branches to step 1014.

When the specific time frame expires, and the modified exchange item was used but did not exhaust the quantifiable value, the method continues at step 1012 where the processing module facilitates producing a further modified EI. The facilitating of producing the further modified EI includes identifying another rule of the applicable set of rules to further modify the modified exchange item and establishing another secure communication with the computing device affiliated to take control of the modified exchange item. While having control over the modified exchange item, the processing module increases a remaining quantifiable value to produce a further modified exchange item, prevents the computing device or another computing device from accessing to the modified exchange item, releases, via the other secure communication, control of the further modified exchange item to the computing device affiliated with the current owner, and sends another notification message to the computing device regarding the further modified exchange item.

The method continues at 1014 where the computing device sends a use request to another server regarding the modified exchange item (e.g., to utilize the modified exchange item for a purchase transaction). The method continues at step 1016 where the other server sends a use notification to the other server (e.g., including information with regards to the purchase transaction). The method continues at step 1018 where the processing module of the server establishes a second secure communication with the computing device affiliated with the current owner to take control of the modified exchange item.

While having control over the exchange item, the method continues at step 1020 where the processing module of the server securely adjusts the quantifiable value of the exchange item based on the use notification to produce an adjusted exchange item (e.g., decrements a remaining balance by an amount of the purchase transaction). The adjusting may further include preventing the computing device, the other server, or other computing devices from accessing the exchange item during the adjusting. The method continues at step 1022 where the processing module of the server, and via the second secure communication, releases control of the adjusted exchange item to the computing device affiliated with the current owner.

The method described above in conjunction with the processing can alternatively be performed by other modules of the exchange item marketplace network or by other devices. In addition, at least one memory section (e.g., a computer readable memory, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium organized into a first memory section, a second memory section, a third memory section, a fourth memory section, etc.) that stores operational instructions can, when executed by one or more processing modules of one or more computing devices (e.g., one or more servers) of the exchange item marketplace network, cause the one or more computing devices to perform any or all of the method steps described above.

FIG. 8L is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network (e.g., a data communication system) that includes the initial owner computing device 928 FIG. 6, the exchange item (EI) issuing server 920 of FIG. 6, the EI trusted module 922 of FIG. 6, the merchant server 924 of FIG. 6, marketplace server 18 FIG. 6, the marketplace database 20 of FIG. 6, and the EI buyer computing device 926 FIG. 6. Entities of the exchange item marketplace network may be operably coupled to each other via the network 24 of FIG. 6 or may be directly coupled. The initial owner computing device 928 includes the digital wallet 946 of FIG. 6 and the EI buyer computing device 926 includes the digital wallet 944 of FIG. 6. The marketplace server 18 includes the set up processing 936, the sale processing 938, the use processing 940, and the rule processing 942 all of FIG. 6. The exchange item marketplace network functions to transfer secure custody of an exchange item between entities in accordance with a secure custody protocol. The secure custody protocol includes utilizing one or more of a contract blockchain and a transaction blockchain as previously discussed.

In an example of operation of the transferring the secure custody of the exchange item between entities, the marketplace server 18 (e.g., the server) establishes an initial validity of the exchange item that includes data regarding a quantifiable value, a serial number, and issuance information, where the initial validity authenticates the exchange item and the data. The issuance information includes one or more of issuer identity, and issuance date, and expiration time frame, EI rules, and use parameters. The establishing may include receiving a plurality of exchange items from the EI issuing server 920, where the plurality of exchange items includes the exchange item, and establishing the initial validity of the exchange item with the EI issuing server 920. For example, the set up processing 936 receives EI information 950 and an EI rule set 952 from the EI issuing server 920, where the EI issuing server 920 issues trust information 954 (e.g., a first contract block of the contract blockchain) to the EI trusted module 922 while generating the EI information 950 and the EI rule set 952. Having received the EI information 950 and the EI rule set 952, the set up processing 936 exchanges set up verification 956 with the EI trusted module 922 to validate the EI information 950 and the EI rule set 952.

Having established the initial validity of the exchange item, the marketplace server 18 executes a secure custody protocol to establish that the initial owner computing device 928 (e.g., a first computing device) of the exchange item marketplace network (e.g., data communication system) has secure custody of the exchange item and to maintain validity of the exchange item. The secure custody protocol may further include one or more of a chain of custody mechanism (e.g., the blockchains), exchange item modification restrictions for computing devices of the data communication system (e.g., the initial owner computing device 928, the EI buyer computing device 926, the merchant server 924), and exchange item modification rights for servers of the data communication system. For example, the sale processing 938 exchanges set up information 958 with the initial owner computing device 928 (e.g., a request to purchase the exchange item, confirmation of sale, the EI info 950, one or more of the transaction blockchain and the contract blockchain).

Having executed the secure custody protocol, in response to an exchange item transfer and in accordance with the secure custody protocol, the marketplace server 18 facilitates transfer of the secure custody of the exchange item from the first computing device (e.g., the initial owner computing device 928) to the server or to a second computing device (e.g., the EI buyer computing device 926) of the data communication system. Such transfer supports one or more of a sale of the exchange item, use of the exchange item for a purchase transaction with a merchant associated with the merchant server 924, and modification of the exchange item in accordance with the EI rule set 952.

The transferring the secure custody of the exchange item from the initial owner computing device 928 to the EI buyer computing device 926 includes creating, by the sale processing 938, an offer for sale digital file for the exchange item in response to an offer for sale request from the initial owner computing device 928 and writing the offer for sale digital file for the exchange item to the marketplace database 20 (e.g., a virtual marketplace database) that includes a user interface for computing devices of the data communication system to view offer for sale digital files for a plurality of exchange items. The transferring further includes the sale processing 938 receiving purchase information 970 that includes a request to purchase the exchange item from the EI buyer computing device 926 and upon successful execution of the purchase, transferring the secure custody of the exchange item to the EI buyer computing device 926. For example, the sale processing 938 exchanges sale verification 968 with the EI trusted module 922 to update the transaction blockchain to indicate that the EI buyer computing device 926 is purchasing the exchange item from the initial owner computing device 928.

The transferring the secure custody of the exchange item from the first computing device to the second computing device may further include the sale processing 938 transferring, in response to another exchange item transfer and in accordance with the secure custody protocol, the secure custody of the exchange item from the second computing device to the marketplace server 18 or to a third computing device of the data communication system. The transferring the secure custody of the exchange item from the first computing device to the second computing device may still further include the initial owner computing device 928 sending a request to use the exchange item to the use processing 940 of the marketplace server 18, where the request to use the exchange item identifies the second computing device. When the use is authorized (e.g., the use processing 940 verifies that such use is authorized in accordance with the EI rule set 952), the use processing 940 transfers the secure custody of the exchange item to the second computing device for the second computing device to execute the use, where the second computing device changes the quantifiable value of the exchange item to produce a use modified exchange item (e.g., modified EI info 1030), and the use processing 940 transfers secure custody of the use modified EI info 1030 from the second computing device to the first computing device.

When transferring the secure custody of the exchange item from the initial owner computing device 928 (e.g., the first computing device) to the EI buyer computing device 926 (e.g., the second computing device), the rule processing 942 of the marketplace server 18 determines whether a change to the data of the exchange item occurred while the exchange item is in the secure custody of the second computer. For example, the rule processing 942 indicates the change to the data when the use processing 940 receives merchant use information 980 from the merchant server 924 in response to the EI buyer computer device 926 issuing buyer use information 976 to the use processing 940 to facilitate the purchase transaction with the merchant server 924.

When the change to the data of the exchange item occurred while the exchange item is in the secure custody of the second computer, the use processing 940 of the marketplace server 18 determines whether the exchange item is exhausted (e.g., a remaining balance of zero). When the exchange item is exhausted, the use processing 940 retires the exchange item (e.g., removes the exchange item from the marketplace database 20 and/or issues retirement information to a current owner of exchange item.

When the exchange item is in the secure custody of the server, the rule processing 942 of the marketplace server 18 may modify the data of the exchange item to produce a modified exchange item. The modifying of the data of the exchange item includes identifying a set of rules regarding the exchange item, where the set of rules includes one or more rules, where a rule of the set of rules includes an amount of data change and one or more conditions on when to apply the amount of change. The modifying further includes the rule processing 942 determining that a condition involving the first computing device conforms to the one or more conditions and when the condition involving the first computing device conforms to the one or more conditions, the rule processing 942 modifies the data of the exchange item in accordance with the amount of change (e.g., updates the marketplace database 20). Having modified the data of the exchange item, the rule processing 942 transfers secure custody of the modified exchange item to the initial owner computing device 928 device in accordance with the secure custody protocol.

FIG. 8M is a logic diagram of an embodiment of another method for modifying an exchange item in an exchange item marketplace network. In particular, a method is presented for use in conjunction with one or more functions and features described in conjunction with FIGS. 1-7E, 8A-L, and also FIG. 8M. The method includes step 1100 where a processing module of a server (e.g., a marketplace server of a communication system) establishes an initial validity of an exchange item that includes data regarding a quantifiable value, a serial number, and issuance information, where the initial validity authenticates the exchange item and the data. The establishing may include receiving a plurality of exchange items from an issuing server, where the plurality of exchange items includes the exchange item, and establishing the initial validity of an exchange item with the issuing server.

The method continues at step 1102 where the processing module executes a secure custody protocol to establish that a first computing device of the data communication system has secure custody of the exchange item and to maintain validity of the exchange item. For example, the processing module generates a secure transaction block of a transaction blockchain, where the secure transaction block indicates that the first computing device has secure custody.

The method continues to step 1104 where the processing module transfers, in response to an exchange item transfer and in accordance with the secure custody protocol, the secure custody of the exchange item from the first computing device to the server or to a second computing device of the data communication system (e.g., for a sale, a purchase, or a modification). The method branches to step 1112 when transferring to the server. When transferring to the second computing device, the transferring the secure custody of the exchange item from the first computing device to the second computing device includes creating an offer for sale digital file for the exchange item in response to an offer for sale request from the first computing device the offer for sale digital file for the exchange item to a virtual marketplace database that includes a user interface for computing devices of the data communication system to view offer for sale digital files for a plurality of exchange items, receiving a request to purchase the exchange item from the second computing device, and upon successful execution of the purchase, transferring the secure custody of the exchange item to the second computing device.

The transferring the secure custody of the exchange item from the first computing device to the second computing device may further include transferring, in response to another exchange item transfer and in accordance with the secure custody protocol, the secure custody of the exchange item from the second computing device to the server or to a third computing device of the data communication system. The transferring the secure custody of the exchange item from the first computing device to the second computing device may still further include sending, by the first computing device, a request to use the exchange item to the server, where the request to use the exchange item identifies the second computing device. When the use is authorized, processing module transfers the secure custody of the exchange item to the second computing device for the second computing device to execute the use, where the second computing device changes the quantifiable value of the exchange item to produce a use modified exchange item, and transfers secure custody of the use modified exchange item from the second computing device to the first computing device.

When transferring the secure custody of the exchange item from the first computing device to the second computing device, the method continues at step 1106 where the processing module determines whether a change to the data of the exchange item occurred while the exchange item is in the secure custody of the second computing device (e.g., a lowering of a remaining balance based on usage of the exchange item). When the change to the data of the exchange item occurred while the exchange item is in the secure custody of the second computing device, the method continues at step 1108 where the processing module determines whether the exchange item is exhausted (e.g., remaining balance has reached zero). When the exchange item is exhausted, the method continues at step 1110 where the processing module retires the exchange item.

When the exchange item is in the secure custody of the server, the method continues at step 1112 or the processing module modifies the data of the exchange item to produce a modified exchange item. The modifying the data of the exchange item includes identifying a set of rules regarding the exchange item, where the set of rules includes one or more rules, where a rule of the set of rules includes an amount of data change and one or more conditions on when to apply the amount of change, determining that a condition involving the first computing device conforms to the one or more conditions, and when the condition involving the first computing device conforms to the one or more conditions, modifying the data of the exchange item in accordance with the amount of change. The method continues at step 1114 where the processing module transfers secure custody of the modified exchange item to the first computing device in accordance with the secure custody protocol.

The method described above in conjunction with the processing can alternatively be performed by other modules of the exchange item marketplace network or by other devices. In addition, at least one memory section (e.g., a computer readable memory, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium organized into a first memory section, a second memory section, a third memory section, a fourth memory section, a fifth memory section etc.) that stores operational instructions can, when executed by one or more processing modules of one or more computing devices (e.g., one or more servers) of the exchange item marketplace network, cause the one or more computing devices to perform any or all of the method steps described above.

FIG. 8N is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network (e.g., a data communication system, a network-based virtual exchange item marketplace) that includes the network 24 of FIG. 6, the merchant server 924 of FIG. 6, an enterprise storage 1122, an enterprise server 1124, a trusted issuing server 1134, and a plurality of computing devices 1-C. The trusted issuing server 1134 may be implemented utilizing one or more of a secure server, the exchange item (EI) issuing server 920 of FIG. 6, and the EI trusted module 922 of FIG. 6. The enterprise storage 1122 may be implemented utilizing a plurality of storage servers at a local or distributed level for storing large amounts of data. For example, the enterprise storage 1122 may be implemented utilizing the marketplace database 20 of FIG. 6. The enterprise server 1124 may be implemented utilizing one or more servers for processing large amounts of data. For example, the enterprise server 1124 may be implemented utilizing the marketplace server 18 of FIG. 6. The plurality of computing devices may include one or more of the initial owner computing device 928 of FIG. 6, the EI buyer computing device 926 of FIG. 6, and any other computer that is part of the data communication system.

The enterprise storage 1122 includes one or more of the agreement database 930 of FIG. 6, the user database 932 of FIG. 6, the exchange item database 934 of FIG. 6, and a rules database 1120. The enterprise server 1124 includes a network interface, a memory, and a processing module operably coupled to the network interface into the memory. The network interface may be implemented utilizing the network interface module(s) 78 of FIG. 3. The memory may be implemented utilizing one or more of the main memory 66 of FIG. 3, the memory interface module(s) 80 of FIG. 3, the flash memory 92 of FIG. 3, the HD memory 94 of FIG. 3, the SS memory 96 of FIG. 3, and the cloud memory 98 of FIG. 3. The processing module may be implemented utilizing the processing module 62 of FIG. 3 and may be utilized to implement one or more of a set up module 1126, a sale module 1128, a use module 1130, and a rule application module 1132.

The set up module 1126 functions to initially validate exchange items and create records in the exchange item database 934 for validated exchange items, where each of the exchange items includes data regarding a quantifiable value, a serial number, and issuance information. The sale module 1128 functions to securely transfer a selected exchange item from the first computing device to the second computing device. The use module 1130 functions to securely apply the selected exchange item to a closed loop digital transaction in accordance with an agreement of the agreements database 930. The rule application module 1132 functions to securely modify the data of the selected exchange item in accordance with an applicable set of rules from the rules database 1120. Examples of operation of the enterprise server 1124 are discussed in greater detail below.

The enterprise storage 1122 further functions to store the user database 932, where the user database 932 includes one or more of a user identifier field (e.g., identified person and associated computing devices), an exchange item buying information field; (e.g., which EIs the user buys), and exchange item use information field (e.g., how much, how often, and what types of EIs the user uses), and an exchange item selling information field.

To facilitate offering exchange items for sale, the processing module of the enterprise server 1124 accesses a record in the user database 932 of a user associated with a computing device, accesses one or more of the exchange item database, the agreements database, and the rules database to identify one or more exchange items of interest to the user, and sends, via the network interface, a message to the computing device regarding the one or more exchange items of interest.

When acquiring an exchange item, the computing device of the plurality of computing devices stores a user exchange item database (e.g., a portion of the exchange item database 934 that is pertinent to the user and computing device) that includes one or more of an exchange item identifier field, an issuer identifier field, an exchange item information field, a use options field, a control field, a location field, a status field, and a transaction field. The exchange item database 934 includes one or more records, where each record includes one or more of an exchange item identifier field, an issuer identifier field, a current owner identifier field, an exchange item information field (e.g., value, type, issuance date, expiration date, use parameters), a conditions field (e.g., tracks conditions of an owner regarding potential applicability of rules), a rules identifier field (e.g., identifies one or more applicable rule sets), an offer for sale field (e.g., an indication that current owner is offering the EI for sale, doesn't prohibit current owner from using EI), a use options field (e.g., identifies which merchants will accept the EI as a form of payment, this is determined based on content of the agreement database 930), a control field (e.g., identifies the entity that currently has the right to use or modify the EI), a location field (e.g., identifies the entity that currently has physical possession of the EI, which may be different than the entity that has control, for example, the server may have physical possession and a computing device may have control), a status field (e.g., identify the status of the EI such as active, inactive, valid, questionable validity, exhausted, expired, etc.), and a transaction field (e.g., a record of the transaction history of the EI, built into blockchain). Each field may include sub-fields to accommodate various pieces of information being recorded.

The agreements database includes one or more of an issuer identifier field, an exchange item type field (e.g., identifies the types of EI that are part of the agreement), a recipient entity identifier field (e.g., identifies the entities that will accept the EI as a form of payment), an agreement identifier field (e.g., agreement between issuer and recipient entity on use of EI), and a rules identifier field (e.g., if rules exist for EI, do they apply for use with the recipient, may vary from recipient to recipient). The rules database includes one or more of an issuer identifier field, an exchange item type field (e.g., per issuer), a rule set field (e.g., includes rules for a set of rules: discount, conditions to be met, etc.), and a rules applicability field (e.g., for an EI type, does the rule set apply or not).

When adding a new exchange item to the data communication system, the set up module 1126 establishes establish, via the network interface and the network 24, a secure communication link with the trusted issuing server 1134, where the issuing server 1134 performs one or more of creating the EI to put directly into the exchange item database, providing on-the-fly creation at request of a user or merchant, providing the EI as a location based promotion, and providing the EI as a user based promotion, etc. Having established the link, the set up module 1126 receives, via the network interface and the network 24, the data of the exchange item from the trusted issuing server 1134 in accordance with a secure custody protocol (e.g., utilizing a contract blockchain). Having received the data, the set up module 1126 establishes the enterprise server 1124 as having secure custody of the exchange item (e.g., as a current owner as noted within the contract blockchain). Having established the secure custody, the set up module 1126 creates a record in the exchange item database 934 for the exchange item.

When the exchange item is to be sold to a computing device, the sale module 1128 receives, via the network interface and the network 24, a request to sell a particular exchange item for a first computing device (e.g., computing device 1). Having received the request, the sale module 1128 verifies that the first computing device has secure custody of the particular exchange item in accordance with the secure custody protocol (e.g., verifies a signature of the computing device 1). When the first computing device has secure custody of the particular exchange item, the sale module 1128 verifies the data of the exchange item (e.g., verifies with the trusted issuing server 1134, verifies with the exchange item database 934, verifies a signature over the data). When the data of the exchange item is verified, the sale module 1128 adds an offer for sale digital record for the particular exchange item in the network-based virtual exchange item marketplace (e.g., indicates for sale in the exchange item database 934).

When the exchange item is to be sold from the first computing device to the second computing device, the sale module 1128 receives, via the network interface and the network 24, a request to purchase a particular exchange item from the second computing device (e.g., computing device 2) and authenticates the second computing device. When the second computing device is authenticated, the sale module 1128 transfers secure custody of the particular exchange item from the first computing device to the second computing device in accordance with the secure custody protocol (e.g., facilitates modification of the contract blockchain to indicate that the computing device 2 is the new owner), and removes the offer for sale digital record for the particular exchange item from the network-based virtual exchange item marketplace (e.g., updates the exchange item database 934).

When a computing device (e.g., computing device 2) utilizes an exchange item in a purchase transaction (e.g., a closed loop digital transaction), the use module 1130 receives, via the network interface and the network 24 from a computing device, a request to use the exchange item in a particular closed loop digital transaction with a recipient entity server (e.g., the merchant server 924). Having received the request, the use module 1130 accesses the agreements database 930 to determine whether an agreement exists between an issuing server (e.g., the trusted issuing server 1134) of the particular exchange item and the recipient entity server. When the agreement exists, the use module 1130 determines whether the particular closed loop digital transaction is in accordance with the agreement (e.g., user is allowed, the particular type of transaction is allowed, rules and conditions apply, etc.). When the particular closed loop digital transaction is in accordance with the agreement, the use module 1130 authorizes the particular closed loop transaction. When the agreement does not exist or the particular closed loop digital transaction is not in accordance with the agreement, use module 1130 denies the particular closed loop transaction.

From time to time, the rule application module 1132 considers modifying the data of the exchange item (e.g., based on one or more of interpreting a schedule, receiving a request, detecting a change in a condition). When considering the modifying of the data, the rule application module 1132 obtains condition information of a computing device having secure custody of a particular exchange item (e.g., condition from user profile and history provides the condition information, physical location, environmental conditions, etc.). The obtaining includes one or more of identifying a condition source, interpreting condition data from the identified condition source, receiving the condition information, performing a lookup, and generating the condition information based on condition data.

Having obtained the condition information, the rule application module 1132 accesses rules of the applicable set of rules associated with the particular exchange item from the rules database 1120. Having accessed the rules, the rule application module 1132 compares the condition information with the rules of the applicable set of rules. When the condition information compares favorably with the rules of the applicable set of rules, the rule application module 1132 obtains secure custody of the particular exchange item from the computing device in accordance with the secure custody protocol (e.g., physically take custody by a data transfer or update the exchange item database 934 to indicate that the enterprise server 1124 has secure custody). While having secure custody, the rule application module 1132 modifies the data of the particular exchange item in accordance with the rules of the application set of rules to produce a modified exchange item and transfers secure custody of the modified exchange item to the computing device.

FIG. 8P is a logic diagram of an embodiment of another method for securely processing an exchange item in an exchange item marketplace network. In particular, a method is presented for use in conjunction with one or more functions and features described in conjunction with FIGS. 1-7E, 8A-N, and also FIG. 8P. The method includes step 1140 where a processing module (e.g., of an enterprise server of a data communication system) stores an exchange item database, an agreements database, and a rules database in an enterprise storage. The storing may further include storing a user database in the enterprise storage and accessing a record in the user database of a user associated with a computing device of a plurality of computing devices. The storing may yet further include accessing a record in the user database of a user associated with a computing device, accessing one or more of the exchange item database, the agreements database, and the rules database to identify one or more exchange items of interest to the user, and sending a message to the computing device regarding the one or more exchange items of interest. The storing may still further include storing, by the computing device of the plurality of computing devices, a user exchange item database (e.g., a portion of the user database).

The method continues at step 1142 where the processing module initially validates exchange items and creates records in the exchange item database for validated exchange items, where each of the exchange items includes data regarding a quantifiable value, a serial number, and issuance information. The initially validating the exchange items and creating records in the exchange further includes establishing a secure communication link with a trusted issuing server, receiving the data of an exchange item from the issuing server in accordance with a secure custody protocol, establishing the enterprise server as having secure custody of the exchange item, and creating a record in the exchange item database for the exchange item.

The method continues to step 1144 where the processing module securely transfers a selected exchange item from a first computing device to a second computing device in accordance with an offer for sale of the selected exchange item. The secure transferring of the selected exchange item from the first computing device to the second computing device in accordance with the offer for sale of the selected exchange item further includes a variety of approaches. In a first approach, the processing module receives a request to sell the selected exchange item from the first computing device, and verifies that the first computing device has secure custody of the particular exchange item in accordance with a secure custody protocol. When the first computing device has secure custody of the particular exchange item, the processing module verifies the data of the exchange item. When the data of the exchange item is verified, the processing module adds an offer for sale digital record for the particular exchange item in a network-based virtual exchange item marketplace (e.g., an exchange item database).

In a second approach to the securely transferring the selected exchange item from the first computing device to the second computing device in accordance with the offer for sale of the selected exchange item, the processing module receives a request to purchase a particular exchange item from the second computing device, and authenticates the second computing device. When the second computing device is authenticated, the processing module transfers secure custody of the particular exchange item from a first computing device to the second computing device in accordance with a secure custody protocol and removes an offer for sale digital record for the particular exchange item from the network-based virtual exchange item marketplace (e.g., from the exchange item database).

The method continues at step 1146 where the processing module securely applies the selected exchange item to a closed loop digital transaction between two computing entities (e.g., computing device or server) in accordance with an agreement of the agreements database. The securely applying the selected exchange item to the closed loop digital transaction further includes receiving, from a computing device, a request to use an exchange item in a particular closed loop digital transaction with a recipient entity server, and accessing the agreements database to determine whether an agreement exists between an issuing server of the particular exchange item and the recipient entity server. When the agreement exists, the processing module determines whether the particular closed loop digital transaction is in accordance with the agreement. When the particular closed loop digital transaction is in accordance with the agreement, the processing module authorizes the particular closed loop transaction. When the agreement does not exist or the particular closed loop digital transaction is not in accordance with the agreement, the processing module denies the particular closed loop transaction.

The method continues at step 1148 where the processing module securely modifies the data of the selected exchange item in accordance with an applicable set of rules from the rules database. The securely modifying of the data of the selected exchange item further includes obtaining condition information of a computing device having secure custody of a particular exchange item, accessing rules of the applicable set of rules associated with the particular exchange item from the rules database, and comparing the condition information with the rules of the applicable set of rules. When the condition information compares favorably with the rules of the applicable set of rules, the processing module obtains secure custody of the particular exchange item from the computing device in accordance with secure custody protocol. While having secure custody, the processing module modifies the data of the particular exchange item in accordance with the rules of the application set of rules to produce a modified exchange item and transfers secure custody of the modified exchange item to the computing device.

The method described above in conjunction with the processing can alternatively be performed by other modules of the exchange item marketplace network or by other devices. In addition, at least one memory section (e.g., a computer readable memory, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium organized into a first memory section, a second memory section, a third memory section, a fourth memory section, a fifth memory section etc.) that stores operational instructions can, when executed by one or more processing modules of one or more computing devices (e.g., one or more servers) of the exchange item marketplace network, cause the one or more computing devices to perform any or all of the method steps described above.

FIGS. 9A-B are schematic block diagrams of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network that includes the exchange item (EI) issuing server 920 of FIG. 6, the EI trusted module 922 of FIG. 6, the EI buyer computing device 926 of FIG. 6, the point-of-sale (POS) equipment 32 of FIG. 1, at least one merchant server 924 of FIG. 6, the marketplace server 18 of FIG. 6, and the marketplace database 20 of FIG. 6. The EI buyer computing device 926 includes a digital wallet 944 of FIG. 6. Hereafter, the EI buyer computing device 926 may be interchangeably referred to as a computing device. The marketplace server 18 includes the set up processing 936 of FIG. 6 and the use processing 940 of FIG. 6. Hereafter the exchange item marketplace network may be interchangeable referred to as a data communication system. The data communication system functions to verify a merchant associated with at least one of the at least one merchant servers 924 of the exchange item marketplace network.

FIG. 9A illustrates an example of the verifying of the merchant where the EI issuing server 920 creates a plurality of exchange items that includes an exchange item for use by the EI buyer computing device 926 when acquiring an item from the merchant associated with a merchant server 924. For example, the EI issuing server 920 creates the plurality of exchange items and issues EI information (info) 950 to the marketplace server 18, where the EI issuing server 920 exchanges trust information 954 with the EI trusted module 922, where the EI trusted module 922 exchanges set up verification 956 with the set up processing 936 to verify creation of the plurality of exchange items.

Having created the plurality of exchange items, the issuing server 920 generates use rules to include a list of authenticating information for the plurality of merchant servers of the data communication system. For example, the EI issuing server 920 generates an EI rule set 952 to include the use rules associated with the plurality of merchant servers. Having generated the use rules, the issuing server 920 provides the use rules to the marketplace server 18 and provides the authenticating information of the merchant server to the merchant server 924. For example, the EI issuing server issues the EI rule set 952 to the set up processing 936 and the set up processing 936 issues authenticating information 1150 to the plurality of merchant servers 924, where the authenticating information includes the use rules.

The authenticating information includes one or more of a variety of authenticating approaches. A first authenticating approach includes a public key of an individual public-private key pair of the merchant server 924, where a verification signature is created using the private key of the individual public-private key pair and a comparative verification signature is created using the public key of the individual public-private key pair. A second authenticating approach includes a public key of a shared public-private key pair, where the shared public-private key pair is shared by a group of merchant servers that includes the merchant server 924, where the verification signature is created using the private key of the shared public-private key pair and the comparative verification signature is created using the public key of the shared public-private key pair. A third authenticating approach includes a security identifier (e.g., a password, a serial number, a random number, combo thereof, etc.) assigned to the merchant server 924, where the merchant server 924 has a local copy of the security identifier and the marketplace server 18 has a centralized copy of the security identifier, where the verification signature is created using the local copy of the security identifier, and where the comparative verification signature is created using the global copy of the security identifier.

With the plurality of exchange items generated and offered for sale by the market place server 18, the EI buyer computing device 926 acquires the exchange item. For example, the EI buyer computing device 926 exchanges secure purchase information 1152 with the set up processing 936, where the secure purchase information includes one or more of the EI info 950, the EI rule set 952, the public keys of the individual public-private key pairs of the merchant servers, the public key of the shared public-private key pair of the merchant servers, and a blockchain ledger documenting purchase of the exchange item by the EI buyer computing device 926, where the blockchain ledger is signed by the marketplace server 18 in accordance with a secure custody protocol.

FIG. 9B further illustrates the example of the verifying of the merchant where the EI buyer computing device 926 (e.g., the computing device of the data communication system) initiates an acquisition process with a merchant server 924 of the data communication system to acquire an item using an exchange item, where the exchange item has an exchange item data file that includes a quantifiable value (e.g., a remaining balance), a serial number (e.g., a unique EI identifier), and issuance information and where the computing device has secure custody of the exchange item data file in accordance with a secure custody protocol (e.g., the set up processing 936 signs the blockchain ledger, where the blockchain ledger includes a public key of the EI buyer computing device 926).

The initializing of the acquisition process includes the EI buyer computing device 926 sending, via the point-of-sale equipment 32, a request (e.g., buyer use information 1154) to acquire the item and identity of the exchange item to the merchant server 924, and sending, by the merchant server 924, notice of the request and identity of the exchange item (e.g., merchant use information 1156) to the use processing 940 of the marketplace server 18. The buyer use information 1154 includes one or more of an identifier of the item for purchase and the blockchain ledger of the secure custody protocol. The merchant use information 1156 includes one or more of the buyer use information 1154 and an identifier of the merchant server 924.

Having sent the notice of the request and identity of the exchange item, at least one of the merchant server 924 and the marketplace server 18 determines whether the acquisition process requires verification of the merchant server 924. The determining includes a variety of approaches. In a first determining approach, the merchant server 924 interprets the request to determine that the acquisition process requires verification, where the request includes a verification indicator, and the merchant server 924 identifies that the exchange item is of a type that requires verification of the merchant server 924. In a second determining approach, the use processing 940 of the marketplace server interprets the notice to determine that the acquisition process requires verification.

When the acquisition process requires verification of the merchant server, the use processing 940 obtains a verification signature of the merchant server. For example, the EI buyer computing device 926 sends the request to acquire the item and the identity of the exchange item to the merchant server 924 to initiate acquisition process, the merchant server 924 determines that the acquisition process requires verification, and the merchant server 924 sends the verification signature and a notice of the request and of the identity of the exchange item to the marketplace server. For instance, the merchant server 924 utilizes an individual private key to sign at least a portion of the merchant use information 1156 and sends the merchant use information 1156 to the use processing 940.

Having received the merchant use information 1156, the use processing 940 of the marketplace server 18 authenticates the verification signature of the merchant server in accordance with use rules (e.g., authorized merchant server keys, use restrictions, acquirable items list, etc.) associated with the exchange item. The authenticating of the verification signature includes the marketplace server 18 obtaining the use rules associated with the exchange item (e.g., from the marketplace database 20, from the received blockchain ledger), where the use rules includes the list of authenticating information for the plurality of merchant servers of the data communication system; determining whether the merchant server is one of the plurality of merchant servers; when the merchant server is one of the plurality of merchant servers, accessing the authenticating information of the merchant server; generating a comparative verification signature based on the authenticating information of the merchant server; comparing the comparative verification signature with the verification signature (e.g., authenticating the verification signature of the merchant server); and when the comparative verification signature substantially matches the verification signature, authenticating the verification signature (e.g., indicating that the merchant server is valid).

When the verification signature of the merchant server is authenticated, the use processing 940 of the marketplace server 18 facilitates exchange of the secure custody of the exchange item data file between the EI buyer computing device 926 and the merchant server 18 in accordance with the secure custody protocol to finalize the acquisition process. The facilitating of the exchange of the secure custody of the exchange item data file includes the marketplace server 18 enabling exchange of the secure custody of the exchange item data file from the EI buyer computing device 926 to the merchant server 924 in accordance with the secure custody protocol (e.g., where the EI buyer computing device 926 has signed a portion of the blockchain ledger that is passed to the merchant server 924), and while having the secure custody, the merchant server 924 updating the exchange item data file to reflect the acquisition of the item by the EI buyer computing device 926 via the exchange item, and when the acquisition process has been executed, the merchant server 924 returning the secure custody of the updated exchange item data file to the computing device (e.g., signing an updated portion of the blockchain ledger for passage back to the EI buyer computing device 926).

FIG. 9C is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for verifying a merchant in a data communication system providing an exchange item marketplace network. In particular, a method is presented for use in conjunction with one or more functions and features described in conjunction with FIGS. 1-8P, 9A-B, and also FIG. 9C. The method includes step 1170 where an issuing server provides use rules to a marketplace server, where the issuing server creates a plurality of exchange items that includes an exchange item acquired by a computing device and subsequently utilized by the computing device to acquire an item using the exchange item, where the issuing server generates the use rules to include a list of authenticating information for a plurality of merchant servers of the data communication system, and where the computing device acquires the item via a merchant server of the plurality of merchant servers. The method continues at step 1172 where the issuing server provides the authenticating information of the merchant server to the merchant server.

The method continues at step 1174 where the computing device initiates an acquisition process with the merchant server of the data communication system to acquire the item using the exchange item, where the exchange item has an exchange item data file that includes a quantifiable value, a serial number, and issuance information and wherein the computing device has secure custody of the exchange item data file in accordance with a secure custody protocol. The initiating of acquisition process includes the computing device sending a request to acquire the item and identity of the exchange item to the merchant server and chin server sending notice of the request and the identity of the exchange item to the marketplace server.

The method continues at step 1176 where at least one of the merchant server and the marketplace server determines whether the acquisition process requires verification of the merchant server. The determining whether the acquisition process requires verification includes one of the merchant server interpreting the request to determine that the acquisition process requires verification, where the request includes a verification indicator; and the merchant server identifying that the exchange item is of a type that requires verification of the merchant server. The determining whether the acquisition process requires verification may further include the marketplace server interpreting the notice to determine that the acquisition process requires verification.

When the acquisition process requires verification of the merchant server, the method continues at step 1178 where the marketplace server obtains a verification signature of the merchant server. As an example of the obtaining of the verification signature of the merchant server, the computing device sends a request to acquire the item and identity of the exchange item to the merchant server to initiate the acquisition process; the merchant server determines that the acquisition process requires verification, and the merchant server sends the verification signature and a notice of the request and of the identity of the exchange item to the marketplace server.

The method continues at step 1180 where the marketplace server authenticates the verification signature of the merchant server in accordance with use rules (e.g., authorized merchant server keys, use restrictions, acquirable items list, etc.) associated with the exchange item. The authenticating the verification signature includes the marketplace server obtaining the use rules associated with the exchange item, where the use rules includes a list of authenticating information for a plurality of merchant servers of the data communication system; the marketplace server determining whether the merchant server is one of the plurality of merchant servers; when the merchant server is one of the plurality of merchant servers, the marketplace server accessing the authenticating information of the merchant server; the marketplace server generating a comparative verification signature based on the authenticating information of the merchant server; marketplace server comparing the comparative verification signature with the verification signature and when the comparative verification signature substantially matches the verification signature, the marketplace server authenticating the verification signature.

When the verification signature of the merchant server is authenticated, the method continues at step 1182 where the marketplace server facilitates exchange of the secure custody of the exchange item data file between the computing device and the merchant server in accordance with the secure custody protocol to finalize the acquisition process. The facilitating includes the marketplace server enabling exchange of the secure custody of the exchange item data file from the computing device to the merchant server in accordance with the secure custody protocol; while having the secure custody, the merchant server updating the exchange item data file to reflect the acquisition of the item by the computing device via the exchange item; and when the acquisition process has been executed, the merchant server returning the secure custody of the updated exchange item data file to the computing device.

The method described above in conjunction with the issuing server, the computing device, and the marketplace server can alternatively be performed by other modules of the exchange item marketplace network or by other devices. In addition, at least one memory section (e.g., a computer readable memory, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium organized into a first memory, a second memory, a third memory, a fourth memory, a fifth memory, etc.) that stores operational instructions can, when executed by one or more processing modules of one or more computing devices (e.g., one or more servers) of the exchange item marketplace network, cause the one or more computing devices to perform any or all of the method steps described above.

FIG. 10A is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network that includes the exchange item (EI) issuing server 920 of FIG. 6, the EI trusted module 922 of FIG. 6, the EI buyer computing device 926 of FIG. 6, the merchant server 924 of FIG. 6, the marketplace server 18 of FIG. 6, and the marketplace database 20 of FIG. 6. The EI buyer computing device 926 includes the digital wallet 944 of FIG. 6. Hereafter, the EI buyer computing device 926 may be interchangeably referred to as a user computing device. The marketplace server 18 includes the use processing 940 of FIG. 6. Hereafter the exchange item marketplace network may be interchangeable referred to as a data communication system. The data communication system functions to redeem an exchange item in the exchange item marketplace network.

In an example of operation of the redeeming of the exchange item, when the EI buyer computing device 926 initiates redemption of an exchange item (EI) held in the digital wallet 944, the use processing 940 receives buyer use information 976, where the buyer use information 976 indicates an item for direct purchase from a particular merchant utilizing the EI without aid of a point-of-sale terminal. The receiving includes the EI buyer computing device 926 obtaining a merchant identifier (ID) and generating the buyer use information 976 to include one or more of the merchant ID, an identifier of the item for purchase, EI information, and a blockchain ledger held in the digital wallet 944 in accordance with a secure custody protocol. Having generated the buyer use information 976, the EI buyer computing device 926 sends the buyer use information directly (e.g., not via a point-of-sale terminal) to the marketplace server 18 (e.g., to the use processing 940).

Having received the buyer use information 976, the use processing 940 validates the buyer use information 976 to produce validated buyer use information. The validating includes one or more of validating the blockchain ledger (i.e., verifying that a signature is valid within the blockchain ledger), accessing the marketplace database 20 to verify that the EI has sufficient remaining balance and that the EI buyer computing device is associated with ownership of the EI, and exchanging use verification 978 with the EI trusted module 922 to validate the EI (i.e., sufficient remaining balance for the transaction).

When the buyer use information 976 is valid, the use processing 940 facilitates processing of the redemption of the EI. The facilitating includes one or more of the use processing 940 generating merchant use information 1210 to include one or more of a portion of the buyer use information, a valid transaction indicator, payment information, a buyer identifier, a transaction identifier, and a direct purchase indicator; and sending the merchant use information 1210 to the merchant server 924, where the merchant server completes the redemption.

FIG. 10B is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for redeeming an exchange item in an exchange item marketplace network. The method includes step 1220 where a processing module (e.g., of a marketplace server) receives buyer use information from a buyer computing device, where the buyer use information indicates an item for direct purchase from a particular merchant by redemption of an exchange item) EI) held by the buyer computing device. For example, the buyer computing device obtains a merchant identifier (ID), generates the buyer use information to include one or more of the merchant ID, an identifier of the item, EI information, and a blockchain ledger held in a digital wallet in accordance with a secure custody protocol, and transmits the buyer use information to the processing module.

The method continues at step 1222 for the processing module validates the buyer use information. The validating includes one or more of validating the blockchain ledger (i.e., verifying that a signature is valid within the blockchain ledger), accessing the marketplace database to verify that the EI has sufficient remaining balance and that the buyer computing devices associated with ownership of the EI, and exchanging use verification with an EI trusted module to further validate EI (i.e., sufficient remaining balance of the EI).

When the buyer use information is valid, the method continues at step 1224 where the processing module facilitates processing of redemption of the exchange item. The facilitating includes one or more of generating merchant use information to include one or more of a portion of the buyer use information, a valid transaction indicator, payment information, a buyer identifier, a transaction identifier, and a direct purchase indicator; and sending the merchant use information to a merchant server associated with a merchant, where the merchant server completes the redemption of the exchange item.

FIG. 11A is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network that includes the exchange item (EI) issuing server 920 of FIG. 6, the EI trusted module 922 of FIG. 6, the EI buyer computing device 926 of FIG. 6, the point-of-sale (POS) equipment 32 of FIG. 1, the merchant server 924 of FIG. 6, the marketplace server 18 of FIG. 6, and the marketplace database 20 of FIG. 6. The EI buyer computing device 926 includes the digital wallet 944 of FIG. 6. Hereafter, the EI buyer computing device 926 may be interchangeably referred to as a user computing device. The marketplace server 18 includes the use processing 940 of FIG. 6 and the rule processing 942 of FIG. 6. Hereafter the exchange item marketplace network may be interchangeable referred to as a data communication system. The data communication system functions to promote utilization of exchange items in the exchange item marketplace network.

In an example of operation of the promoting utilization of the exchange items, for a plurality of EI redemption transactions initiated by the EI buyer computing device 926, the use processing 940 maintains a historical record of at least some of the EI redemption transactions. The maintaining includes at least one of storing at least a portion of received merchant use information 980 (e.g., buyer use information, payment information) and the marketplace database 20 and storing a blockchain ledger associated with each of one or more exchange items associated with the EI buyer computing device in the marketplace database 20.

Having maintained the historical records, the rule processing 942 indicates enablement of one or more promotions associated with a detected pattern of the redemption transactions. The promotions include one or more of receiving a further discount when spending down an exchange item balance in accordance with a schedule, receiving an additional discount for a limited time frame, offering a special one-time discount when he time frame has expired since the last redemption, etc. The indicating of the enablement includes retrieving the historical record, comparing and interpretation of the retreat historical record with one or more promotion EI rules, and indicating the enablement of the one or more promotions when the interpretation of the comparison is favorable (i.e., a pattern match).

With the enablement of the one or more promotions indicated, the rule processing 942 issues updated EI information and EI rules 1230 to the EI buyer computing device 926, where an initial EI information 950 and an EI rule set 952 are updated in accordance with the enameled one or more promotions, and where the EI buyer computing device 926 may subsequently initiate further EI redemptions in accordance with the one or more promotions. For example, the EI buyer computing device 926 sends buyer use information 976, via the POS equipment 32, to the merchant server 924 in accordance with the one or more promotions. Alternatively, or in addition to, the EI buyer computing device 926 to text the pattern of the redemption transactions and in accordance with an existing EI rule, activates a dormant EI rule under a secure custody protocol to initiate the further EI redemptions in accordance with one or more promotions.

FIG. 11B is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for promoting utilization of exchange items in an exchange item marketplace network. For a plurality of exchange item redemption transactions initiated by a buyer computing device, the method includes step 1240 where a processing module (e.g., of a marketplace server) maintains a historical record of at least some of the redemption transactions. The maintaining includes at least one of storing at least a portion of received merchant use information in a marketplace database and storing a blockchain ledger associated with redemption transactions of the buyer computing device in the marketplace database.

The method continues at step 1242 where the processing module indicates enablement of one or more promotions associated with a detected pattern of redemption transactions in accordance with one or more promotion exchange item (EI) rules. The indicating of the enablement includes one or more of retrieving the historical record, comparing and interpretation of the retreat historical record with one or more promotion EI rules, and indicating the enablement of the one or more promotions when the comparison is favorable (i.e., a pattern match).

The method continues at step 1244 where the processing module provides updated exchange item information to the buyer computing device in accordance with the one or more unable promotions. For example, the processing module identifies the enabled one or more promotions (i.e., in accordance with the one or more promotion EI rules) and sends promotion information with regards to the one or more unable promotions to the buyer computing device.

FIG. 12A is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network that includes the exchange item (EI) issuing server 920 of FIG. 6, the EI trusted module 922 of FIG. 6, the EI buyer computing device 926 of FIG. 6, the point-of-sale (POS) equipment 32 of FIG. 1, the merchant server 924 of FIG. 6, the marketplace server 18 of FIG. 6, and the marketplace database 20 of FIG. 6. The EI buyer computing device 926 includes the digital wallet 944 of FIG. 6 and sensors 1250. The sensors 1250 includes one or more of an audio sensor (i.e., a microphone), an image sensor (i.e., a camera), a compass sensor, a position sensor (i.e., a GPS receiver), an elevation sensor, a weather sensor, etc. Hereafter, the EI buyer computing device 926 may be interchangeably referred to as a user computing device. The marketplace server 18 includes the use processing 940 of FIG. 6 and the rule processing 942 of FIG. 6. Hereafter the exchange item marketplace network may be interchangeable referred to as a data communication system. The data communication system functions to verify redemption of an exchange item in the exchange item marketplace network.

In an example of operation of the verifying of the redemption, when the EI buyer computing device 926 initiates redemption of an exchange item (EI), the use processing 940 receives merchant use information 1254 from the merchant server 924, where the merchant use information 1254 includes one or more of sensor data from the sensors 1250, EI rules, buyer use information 1252, and payment information. The receiving includes one or more of the EI buyer computing device 926 receiving EI info 950 and EI rule set 952, where the marketplace server 18 exchanges the EI info 950 and the EI rule set 952 with the EI issuing server 920 when generating the EI, the EI buyer computing device 926 obtaining the sensor data from the sensors 1250, generating the buyer use information 1252 that includes one or more of the sensor information, the EI rules, an identifier of an item for purchase, and a blockchain ledger in accordance with a secure custody protocol; and sending the buyer use information 1252, via the POS equipment 32 to the merchant server 924.

With the redemption initiated, the rule processing 942 interprets the sensor data in accordance with the one or more EI rules associated with the EI to produce sensory summary information. The interpreting includes one or more of identifying an analysis approach based on the EI rule and performing an analysis in accordance with the analysis approach on at least a portion of the sensor data to produce the sensory summary information. For example, the rule processing 942 analyzes image sensor data to generate the sensory summary information.

With the interpretation of the sensor data, the use processing 940 determines a risk level for the redemption based on the sensor summary information. The determining includes one or more of comparing the sensor summary information to estimated sensor summary information based on one or more of the EI rule, the EI, and the sensor data; and generating the risk level for the redemption based on the comparison, i.e., indicating a high risk of an unfavorable redemption when the comparison is unfavorable. For example, the use processing 940 generates an unfavorable risk level when the image sensor data generated sensory summary information compares unfavorably to a predetermined image associated with a merchant of the merchant server 924 (e.g., indicating that the EI buyer computing device 926 is probably not located at a store affiliated with the expected merchant server 924).

Having determined the risk level, the use processing 940 for the processes the redemption based on the determined risk level. The further processing includes at least one of denying the redemption when the risk level is greater than a maximum risk threshold level and allowing the redemption when the risk level is less than the maximum threshold level.

FIG. 12B is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for verifying redemption of an exchange item in an exchange item marketplace network. When a buyer computing device initiates redemption of an exchange item (EI), the method includes step 1260 where a processing module (e.g., of a marketplace server) receives merchant use information from a merchant server, where the merchant use information includes sensor data associated with the buyer computing device in accordance with one or more EI rules associated with the EI. The receiving includes one or more of the buyer computing device receiving EI information and EI rules from the marketplace server upon acquisition of the EI; the buyer computing device obtaining the sensor data from sensors; the buyer computing device generating buyer use information that includes one or more of the sensor data, EI rules, an identifier of an item for purchase, and a blockchain ledger in accordance with a secure custody protocol; and the buyer computing device sending the buyer use information to the merchant server.

The method continues at step 1262 where the processing module interprets the sensor data in accordance with the one or more EI rules to produce sensor summary information. The interpreting includes identifying an analysis approach based on the EI rule and performing an analysis in accordance with the analysis approach on at least a portion of the sensor data to produce the sensor summary information.

The method continues at step 1264 where the processing module determines a risk level for the redemption based on the sensor summary information. The determining of the risk level includes one or more of comparing the sensor summary information to estimated sensor summary information based on one or more of the EI rule, the EI, and the sensor data; and generating the risk level for the redemption based on the comparison, i.e., indicating a high risk of an unfavorable redemption when the comparison is unfavorable. For instance, the processing module indicates the high risk of the unfavorable redemption when the sensor summary information does not correlate to expected sensor information associated with a location of the buyer computing device.

The method continues at step 1266 where the processing module further processes the redemption based on the determined risk level. For example, the processing module denies the redemption when the risk level is greater than a maximum risk threshold level. As another example, the processing module allows the redemption when the risk level is less than the maximum threshold level.

FIG. 13A is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of an exchange item marketplace network that includes the exchange item (EI) issuing server 920 of FIG. 6, the EI trusted module 922 of FIG. 6, the EI buyer computing device 926 of FIG. 6, the point-of-sale (POS) equipment 32 of FIG. 1, the merchant server 924 of FIG. 6, the marketplace server 18 of FIG. 6, and the marketplace database 20 of FIG. 6. The EI buyer computing device 926 includes the digital wallet 944 of FIG. 6. Hereafter, the EI buyer computing device 926 may be interchangeably referred to as a user computing device. The marketplace server 18 includes the use processing 940 of FIG. 6 and the set up processing 936 of FIG. 6. Hereafter the exchange item marketplace network may be interchangeable referred to as a data communication system. The data communication system functions to authorize exchange item redemption in the exchange item marketplace network.

In an example of operation of the authorizing of the exchange item (EI) redemption, when the EI buyer computing device 926 obtains an exchange item, the set up processing 936 exchanges secure purchase information 1270 with the EI buyer computing device 926, with the EI buyer computing device 926 provides a public key associated with the EI buyer computing device. The exchanging includes one or more of receiving the public key and an EI identifier (ID); updating a blockchain ledger to include the public key in accordance with a secure custody protocol; sending the updated blockchain ledger, EI information 950, and an EI rule set 952 to the EI buyer computing device 926; and storing the updated blockchain ledger in the marketplace database 20, where the set up processing 936 exchanges the EI information 950 and the EI rule set 952 with the EI issuing server 920, where the EI issuing server 920 exchanges trust information 954 with the EI trusted module 922, and where the EI trusted module exchanges set up verification 956 with the set up processing 936 to verify the EI.

When the EI buyer computing device 926 initiates redemption of the EI, the use processing 940 receives merchant use information 1274 from the merchant server 924, where the merchant server receives buyer use information 1272 from the EI buyer computing device 926 via the POS equipment 32, where the buyer use information 1272 includes a signature from the EI buyer computing device, and where the EI buyer computing device 926 generates the signature utilizing a private key of a public/private key pair where the public key is included in the blockchain ledger. The receiving includes one or more of the EI buyer computing device 926 utilizing the private key to generate the signature; the EI buyer computing device generating the buyer use information 1272 to include one or more of an identifier of an item for purchase, the EI identifier (ID), an EI buyer computing device ID, and the blockchain ledger; and the EI buyer computing device 926 sending the buyer use information 1272 to the merchant server 924 via the POS equipment 32, where the merchant server 924 sends the merchant use information 1274 to the use processing 940, where the merchant use information 1274 includes the buyer use information 1272 and a merchant ID.

Having received the merchant use information 1274, the use processing 940 issues further merchant use information to the POS equipment 32 via the merchant server 924, where the further merchant use information includes marketplace server authorization information and at least some of the buyer use information 1272. The issuing includes one or more of verifying the received EI buyer computing device signature utilizing at least one of the public key extracted from the received blockchain ledger and a public key extracted from a copy of the blockchain ledger retrieved from the marketplace database 20; generating the further merchant use information; and sending the further merchant use information to the merchant server, where at least one of the POS equipment 32 and the merchant server 924 may perform a further authorization of the redemption, where the further authorization includes at least one of interpreting the received marketplace server authorization information and verifying the received EI buyer computing device signature utilizing the public key extracted from the received blockchain ledger.

FIG. 13B is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for authorizing exchange item redemption in an exchange item marketplace network. When a computing device is to obtain an exchange item (EI), the method includes step 1280 where a processing module (e.g., of a marketplace server), exchanges secure purchase information with the computing device, where the secure purchase information includes a security aspect for utilization in a subsequent EI redemption transaction. The exchanging includes one or more of receiving a public key (i.e., of a public/private key pair of the computing device) as the security aspect and an EI identifier (ID); updating a blockchain ledger to include the public key in accordance with a secure custody protocol; sending the updated blockchain ledger, EI information, and EI rule set to the computing device; and storing the updated blockchain ledger in a marketplace database for utilization in the subsequent EI redemption transaction.

When the computing device initiates the redemption transaction, the method continues at step 1282 where the processing module receives buyer use information from point of sale (POS) equipment, where the buyer use information includes a representation of the security aspect. The receiving includes one or more of the computing device utilizing the private key to generate a signature as the representation of the security aspect; the computing device generating the buyer use information to include one or more of an identifier of an item for purchase, the EI identifier (ID), a computing device ID, and the blockchain ledger; and the computing device sending the buyer use information to a merchant server via the POS equipment, where the merchant server sends the merchant use information to the processing module, and where the merchant use information includes the buyer use information and a merchant ID.

The method continues at step 1284 where the processing module issues authorization information to the POS equipment, where the authorization information is based on verification of the representation of the security aspect with regards to the security aspect. The issuing includes one or more of verifying the received computing device signature utilizing at least one of a public key extracted from the received blockchain ledger and a public key extracted from a copy of the blockchain ledger retrieved from the marketplace database; generating the further merchant use information and sending the further merchant use information to the merchant server, where at least one of the POS equipment and the merchant server may perform a further authorization of the redemption, where the further authorization includes at least one of interpreting a received marketplace server authorization information and verifying the received computing device signature utilizing the public key extracted from the received blockchain ledger.

It is noted that terminologies as may be used herein such as bit stream, stream, signal sequence, etc. (or their equivalents) have been used interchangeably to describe digital information whose content corresponds to any of a number of desired types (e.g., data, video, speech, audio, etc. any of which may generally be referred to as ‘data’).

As may be used herein, the terms “substantially” and “approximately” provides an industry-accepted tolerance for its corresponding term and/or relativity between items. Such an industry-accepted tolerance ranges from less than one percent to fifty percent and corresponds to, but is not limited to, component values, integrated circuit process variations, temperature variations, rise and fall times, and/or thermal noise. Such relativity between items ranges from a difference of a few percent to magnitude differences. As may also be used herein, the term(s) “configured to”, “operably coupled to”, “coupled to”, and/or “coupling” includes direct coupling between items and/or indirect coupling between items via an intervening item (e.g., an item includes, but is not limited to, a component, an element, a circuit, and/or a module) where, for an example of indirect coupling, the intervening item does not modify the information of a signal but may adjust its current level, voltage level, and/or power level. As may further be used herein, inferred coupling (i.e., where one element is coupled to another element by inference) includes direct and indirect coupling between two items in the same manner as “coupled to”. As may even further be used herein, the term “configured to”, “operable to”, “coupled to”, or “operably coupled to” indicates that an item includes one or more of power connections, input(s), output(s), etc., to perform, when activated, one or more its corresponding functions and may further include inferred coupling to one or more other items. As may still further be used herein, the term “associated with”, includes direct and/or indirect coupling of separate items and/or one item being embedded within another item.

As may be used herein, the term “compares favorably”, indicates that a comparison between two or more items, signals, etc., provides a desired relationship. For example, when the desired relationship is that signal 1 has a greater magnitude than signal 2, a favorable comparison may be achieved when the magnitude of signal 1 is greater than that of signal 2 or when the magnitude of signal 2 is less than that of signal 1. As may be used herein, the term “compares unfavorably”, indicates that a comparison between two or more items, signals, etc., fails to provide the desired relationship.

As may also be used herein, the terms “processing module”, “processing circuit”, “processor”, and/or “processing unit” may be a single processing device or a plurality of processing devices. Such a processing device may be a microprocessor, micro-controller, digital signal processor, microcomputer, central processing unit, field programmable gate array, programmable logic device, state machine, logic circuitry, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or any device that manipulates signals (analog and/or digital) based on hard coding of the circuitry and/or operational instructions. The processing module, module, processing circuit, and/or processing unit may be, or further include, memory and/or an integrated memory element, which may be a single memory device, a plurality of memory devices, and/or embedded circuitry of another processing module, module, processing circuit, and/or processing unit. Such a memory device may be a read-only memory, random access memory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, static memory, dynamic memory, flash memory, cache memory, and/or any device that stores digital information. Note that if the processing module, module, processing circuit, and/or processing unit includes more than one processing device, the processing devices may be centrally located (e.g., directly coupled together via a wired and/or wireless bus structure) or may be distributedly located (e.g., cloud computing via indirect coupling via a local area network and/or a wide area network). Further note that if the processing module, module, processing circuit, and/or processing unit implements one or more of its functions via a state machine, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or logic circuitry, the memory and/or memory element storing the corresponding operational instructions may be embedded within, or external to, the circuitry comprising the state machine, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or logic circuitry. Still further note that, the memory element may store, and the processing module, module, processing circuit, and/or processing unit executes, hard coded and/or operational instructions corresponding to at least some of the steps and/or functions illustrated in one or more of the Figures. Such a memory device or memory element can be included in an article of manufacture.

One or more embodiments have been described above with the aid of method steps illustrating the performance of specified functions and relationships thereof. The boundaries and sequence of these functional building blocks and method steps have been arbitrarily defined herein for convenience of description. Alternate boundaries and sequences can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships are appropriately performed. Any such alternate boundaries or sequences are thus within the scope and spirit of the claims. Further, the boundaries of these functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined for convenience of description. Alternate boundaries could be defined as long as the certain significant functions are appropriately performed. Similarly, flow diagram blocks may also have been arbitrarily defined herein to illustrate certain significant functionality.

To the extent used, the flow diagram block boundaries and sequence could have been defined otherwise and still perform the certain significant functionality. Such alternate definitions of both functional building blocks and flow diagram blocks and sequences are thus within the scope and spirit of the claims. One of average skill in the art will also recognize that the functional building blocks, and other illustrative blocks, modules and components herein, can be implemented as illustrated or by discrete components, application specific integrated circuits, processors executing appropriate software and the like or any combination thereof.

In addition, a flow diagram may include a “start” and/or “continue” indication. The “start” and “continue” indications reflect that the steps presented can optionally be incorporated in or otherwise used in conjunction with other routines. In this context, “start” indicates the beginning of the first step presented and may be preceded by other activities not specifically shown. Further, the “continue” indication reflects that the steps presented may be performed multiple times and/or may be succeeded by other activities not specifically shown. Further, while a flow diagram indicates a particular ordering of steps, other orderings are likewise possible provided that the principles of causality are maintained.

The one or more embodiments are used herein to illustrate one or more aspects, one or more features, one or more concepts, and/or one or more examples. A physical embodiment of an apparatus, an article of manufacture, a machine, and/or of a process may include one or more of the aspects, features, concepts, examples, etc. described with reference to one or more of the embodiments discussed herein. Further, from figure to figure, the embodiments may incorporate the same or similarly named functions, steps, modules, etc. that may use the same or different reference numbers and, as such, the functions, steps, modules, etc. may be the same or similar functions, steps, modules, etc. or different ones.

Unless specifically stated to the contra, signals to, from, and/or between elements in a figure of any of the figures presented herein may be analog or digital, continuous time or discrete time, and single-ended or differential. For instance, if a signal path is shown as a single-ended path, it also represents a differential signal path. Similarly, if a signal path is shown as a differential path, it also represents a single-ended signal path. While one or more particular architectures are described herein, other architectures can likewise be implemented that use one or more data buses not expressly shown, direct connectivity between elements, and/or indirect coupling between other elements as recognized by one of average skill in the art.

The term “module” is used in the description of one or more of the embodiments. A module implements one or more functions via a device such as a processor or other processing device or other hardware that may include or operate in association with a memory that stores operational instructions. A module may operate independently and/or in conjunction with software and/or firmware. As also used herein, a module may contain one or more sub-modules, each of which may be one or more modules.

While particular combinations of various functions and features of the one or more embodiments have been expressly described herein, other combinations of these features and functions are likewise possible. The present disclosure is not limited by the particular examples disclosed herein and expressly incorporates these other combinations. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprises: initiating, by a computing device of a data communication system, an acquisition process with a merchant server of the data communication system to acquire an item using an exchange item, wherein the exchange item has an exchange item data file that includes a quantifiable value, a serial number, and issuance information and wherein the computing device has secure custody of the exchange item data file in accordance with a secure custody protocol; determining, by at least one of the merchant server and a marketplace server of the data communication system, whether the acquisition process requires verification of the merchant server; and when the acquisition process requires verification of the merchant server: obtaining, by the marketplace server, a verification signature of the merchant server; authenticating, by the marketplace server, the verification signature of the merchant server in accordance with use rules associated with the exchange item; and when the verification signature of the merchant server is authenticated, facilitating, by the marketplace server, exchange of the secure custody of the exchange item data file between the computing device and the merchant server in accordance with the secure custody protocol to finalize the acquisition process.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the initiating the acquisition process comprises: sending, by the computing device, a request to acquire the item and identity of the exchange item to the merchant server; and sending, by the merchant server, notice of the request and the identity of the exchange item to the marketplace server.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the determining whether the acquisition process requires verification comprises one of: interpreting, by the merchant server, the request to determine that the acquisition process requires verification, wherein the request includes a verification indicator; and identifying, by the merchant server, that the exchange item is of a type that requires verification of the merchant server.
 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the determining whether the acquisition process requires verification comprises: interpreting, by the marketplace server, the notice to determine that the acquisition process requires verification.
 5. The method of claim 1 further comprises: sending, by the computing device, a request to acquire the item and identity of the exchange item to the merchant server to initiate the acquisition process; determining, by the merchant server, that the acquisition process requires verification; and sending, by the merchant server, the verification signature and a notice of the request and of the identity of the exchange item to the marketplace server.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the authenticating the verification signature comprises: obtaining, by the marketplace server, the use rules associated with the exchange item, wherein the use rules includes a list of authenticating information for a plurality of merchant servers of the data communication system; determining, by the marketplace server, whether the merchant server is one of the plurality of merchant servers; when the merchant server is one of the plurality of merchant servers, accessing, by the marketplace server, the list of authenticating information of the merchant server; generating, by the marketplace server, a comparative verification signature based on the list of authenticating information of the merchant server; comparing, by the marketplace server, the comparative verification signature with the verification signature; and when the comparative verification signature substantially matches the verification signature, authenticating, by the marketplace server, the verification signature.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the list of authenticating information comprises one or more of: a public key of an individual public-private key pair of the merchant server, wherein the verification signature is created using a private key of the individual public-private key pair and the comparative verification signature is created using the public key of the individual public-private key pair; a public key of a shared public-private key pair, wherein the shared public-private key pair is shared by a group of merchant servers that includes the merchant server, wherein the verification signature is created using a private key of the shared public-private key pair and the comparative verification signature is created using the public key of the shared public-private key pair; and a security identifier assigned to the merchant server, wherein the merchant server has a local copy of the security identifier and the marketplace server has a centralized copy of the security identifier, wherein the verification signature is created using the local copy of the security identifier, and wherein the comparative verification signature is created using the local copy of the security identifier.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the facilitating the exchange of the secure custody of the exchange item data file comprises: enabling, by the marketplace server, exchange of the secure custody of the exchange item data file from the computing device to the merchant server in accordance with the secure custody protocol; while having the secure custody, updating, by the merchant server, the exchange item data file to reflect the acquisition process of the item by the computing device via the exchange item; and when the acquisition process has been executed, returning, by the merchant server, the secure custody of the updated exchange item data file to the computing device.
 9. The method of claim 1 further comprises: creating, by an issuing server, a plurality of exchange items that includes the exchange item; generating, by the issuing server, the use rules to include a list of authenticating information for a plurality of merchant servers of the data communication system; providing, by the issuing server, the use rules to the marketplace server; and providing, by the issuing server, the list of authenticating information of the merchant server to the merchant server.
 10. A computer readable memory comprises: a first memory that stores operational instructions that, when read by a computing device of a data communication system, causes the computing device to: initiate an acquisition process with a merchant server of the data communication system to acquire an item using an exchange item, wherein the exchange item has an exchange item data file that includes a quantifiable value, a serial number, and issuance information and wherein the computing device has secure custody of the exchange item data file in accordance with a secure custody protocol; a second memory that stores operational instructions that, when read by at least one of the merchant server or by a marketplace server of the data communication system, causes the at least one of the merchant server and the marketplace server to: determine whether the acquisition process requires verification of the merchant server; and a third memory that stores operational instructions that, when read by the marketplace server, causes the marketplace server to: when the acquisition process requires verification of the merchant server: obtain a verification signature of the merchant server; authenticate the verification signature of the merchant server in accordance with use rules associated with the exchange item; and when the verification signature of the merchant server is authenticated, facilitate exchange of the secure custody of the exchange item data file between the computing device and the merchant server in accordance with the secure custody protocol to finalize the acquisition process.
 11. The computer readable memory of claim 10 further comprises: the first memory further stores operational instructions that, when read by the computing device, causes the computing device to initiate the acquisition process by: sending a request to acquire the item and identity of the exchange item to the merchant server; and a fourth memory that stores operational instructions that, when read by the merchant server, causes the merchant server to: send notice of the request and the identity of the exchange item to the marketplace server.
 12. The computer readable memory of claim 11, wherein the second memory further stores operational instructions that, when read by the merchant server, causes the merchant server to determine whether the acquisition process requires verification by one of: interpreting the request to determine that the acquisition process requires verification, wherein the request includes a verification indicator; and identifying that the exchange item is of a type that requires verification of the merchant server.
 13. The computer readable memory of claim 11, wherein the second memory further stores operational instructions that, when read by the marketplace server, causes the marketplace server to determine whether the acquisition process requires verification by: interpreting the notice to determine that the acquisition process requires verification.
 14. The computer readable memory of claim 10 further comprises: the first memory further stores operational instructions that, when read by the computing device, causes the computing device to initiate the acquisition process by: sending a request to acquire the item and identity of the exchange item to the merchant server to initiate the acquisition process; a fourth memory that stores operational instructions that, when read by the merchant server, causes the merchant server to: determine that the acquisition process requires verification; and send the verification signature and a notice of the request and of the identity of the exchange item to the marketplace server.
 15. The computer readable memory of claim 10, wherein the third memory further stores operational instructions that, when read by the marketplace server, causes the marketplace server to authenticate the verification signature by: obtaining the use rules associated with the exchange item, wherein the use rules includes a list of authenticating information for a plurality of merchant servers of the data communication system; determining whether the merchant server is one of the plurality of merchant servers; when the merchant server is one of the plurality of merchant servers, accessing the list of authenticating information of the merchant server; generating a comparative verification signature based on the list of authenticating information of the merchant server; comparing the comparative verification signature with the verification signature; and when the comparative verification signature substantially matches the verification signature, authenticating the verification signature.
 16. The computer readable memory of claim 15, wherein the list of authenticating information comprises one or more of: a public key of an individual public-private key pair of the merchant server, wherein the verification signature is created using a private key of the individual public-private key pair and the comparative verification signature is created using the public key of the individual public-private key pair; a public key of a shared public-private key pair, wherein the shared public-private key pair is shared by a group of merchant servers that includes the merchant server, wherein the verification signature is created using a private key of the shared public-private key pair and the comparative verification signature is created using the public key of the shared public-private key pair; and a security identifier assigned to the merchant server, wherein the merchant server has a local copy of the security identifier and the marketplace server has a centralized copy of the security identifier, wherein the verification signature is created using the local copy of the security identifier, and wherein the comparative verification signature is created using the local copy of the security identifier.
 17. The computer readable memory of claim 10 further comprises: the third memory further stores operational instructions that, when read by the marketplace server, causes the marketplace server to facilitate the exchange of the secure custody of the exchange item data file by: enabling exchange of the secure custody of the exchange item data file from the computing device to the merchant server in accordance with the secure custody protocol; and a fourth memory that stores operational instructions that, when read by the merchant server, causes the merchant server to: while having the secure custody, update the exchange item data file to reflect the acquisition process of the item by the computing device via the exchange item; and when the acquisition process has been executed, return the secure custody of the updated exchange item data file to the computing device.
 18. The computer readable memory of claim 10 further comprises: a fourth memory that stores operational instructions that, when read by an issuing server, causes the issuing server to: create a plurality of exchange items that includes the exchange item; generate the use rules to include a list of authenticating information for a plurality of merchant servers of the data communication system; provide the use rules to the marketplace server; and provide the list of authenticating information of the merchant server to the merchant server. 